How to Prevent Hammer Toes

The term 'hammer toe' is used to describe a toe that is subluxed (partially dislocated) at the first joint. The toe protrudes above the other toes and can become painful and awkward to fit into shoes. The condition usually occurs to the second toe. Hammer toes can be treated and there are a few things that can be done to prevent the condition from worsening.

Things You'll Need

• A podiatrist
• A willingness to change your footwear style

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Instructions

Shoes

• 1

  Change your footwear to shoes that do not rub across the hammer toe in order to prevent corns, blisters or cuts from forming. Avoid straps or seams that may irritate the toe. You may be able to wear open toe shoes in the warmer weather. A deep toe box in a shoe is otherwise necessary.

• 2

  Avoid narrow or short shoes to prevent the condition from worsening. Slip-on shoes may also exacerbate the problem so it is best to wear a shoe that is held on the foot by a strap or lace.

• 3

  Mobilize the toe by gently stretching the toe into a straight position. This may prevent the deformity from worsening and may even correct it in very mild cases.

• 4

  Visit your podiatrist who may provide a toe device to alleviate pressure or to prevent the deformity from worsening.

• 5

  Consider surgery if the toe becomes a real problem. There are many procedures that can be done to straighten the toe and prevent the hammer toe from recurring.