Hammer Vs. Mallet Toe

Hammertoe is a condition in which the middle toe joint is bent and causes the toe to curl. Mallet toe is also bent but affects the upper toe joint. The two conditions have similar causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Causes

• Hammertoe and mallet toe can be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or too high-heeled. These conditions can also be inherited, or caused by injury or nerve and muscle diseases such as arthritis.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of both conditions include corns, calluses, and pain when walking, moving your feet, or the affected toe. Hammertoes look hammer- or claw-like. Mallet toes have a deformity which makes them look like a mallet.

Treatment

• Treatment of hammertoe and mallet toe includes wearing shoe inserts, pads, and more comfortable shoes. Your doctor may recommend surgery to release or realign the toe tendon, or to remove pieces of bone.

Self-care

• Home treatment of hammertoe and mallet toe can include exercises designed to strengthen muscles such as stretching your toe muscles and picking up marbles with your toes.

Prevention

• Prevent hammertoe or mallet toe by wearing shoes that have a low heel, plenty of toe room, and are comfortable. You should also avoid plastic or vinyl shoes, which cause your feet to perspire.