Remedy for Hammertoes

Hammertoe is the medical term for a bending of the joint of second, third or fourth toe. When the toe bends or becomes deformed at the joint, it looks like a hammer--hence the name. The hammertoe may cause pain, and calluses may develop on the affected toe. You may have difficulty finding shoes to wear over the hammertoe as well. If corrected early, hammertoe can usually be resolved by simple treatment. But if left untreated, it may need to be corrected surgically.

Special Shoes

• According to Your Orthopedic Connection, the first line of treatment is simply switching to roomy shoes and avoiding narrow shoes and/or high heels. The general rule is that the "box" for your toes should be at 1/2 longer than the longest toe. If you have a hammertoe already, you should ensure that you select shoes that do not pinch the hammertoe or take your shoes to a shoemaker to have them stretched to provide ample room. Sandals may also be an option, weather permitting, as long as the sandal is otherwise comfortable and supportive and doesn't rub the affected toes. Finally, some people benefit from wearing cushions or corn pads on the affected toes.

Toe Exercises

• Simple toe exercises can also provide relief from hammertoe. Picking things up off the floor with your toes can stretch the toes and re-align the affected joints. Stretching, pointing and flexing the toes can also help. Finally, place a flat towel under the toes and wrinkle or crumple the towel using only the toes. Do these exercises several times a day to help stretch the affected toes.

Surgery

• If physical therapy and special shoes fail, outpatient surgery may be an option to correct hammertoe. The procedure for less severe cases involves removal of the hump or curve in the toe and realignment of the joint. In some cases, a short tendon is surgically released, or a tendon in the toe is moved/removed and a steel pin is inserted to realign and reshape the toe.