Hammer Toe / Mallet Toe

A Hammer Toe is a toe that is contracted at the middle joint of the toe, potentially leading to severe pressure and pain. A Mallet is a toe that is contracted at the joint at the end of the toe. Hammer Toes may occur in any toes except the big toe; however, Mallet Toes may occur at any toe. Muscle imbalances in the toes result in a tightening of the ligaments and tendons of that toe causing the joint to curl and stick up. Arthritis is a major cause of this type of toe deformity; however, there are many other neuromuscular diseases that can be contributing factors as well.

There are two types of Hammer Toes: flexible and rigid. A flexible Hammer Toe can be straightened manually and pain is minimal. A rigid Hammer Toe will not move and is usually very painful. A Mallet Toe can not be straightened and is always rigid. Hammer Toes/Mallet Toes have restricted movement during walking, thus creating more stress on the ball of the foot. In both cases, shoe fit is a problem due to the joint sticking up and rubbing on the toe box of the shoe.

It is very important when dealing with Hammer Toes/Mallet Toes that you choose a shoe that has a deep toe box to accommodate the raised joint. Whether or not your Hammer Toes/Mallet Toes are flexible or rigid, a proper fitted shoe and a custom fitted ezWalker™ is the best way to reduce forefoot pressures and support the foot to eliminate the pain of hammer toes. In the case of Flexible Hammer Toes a metatarsal pad added to the ezWalker™ will release stress placed on the Hammer Toes during walking. Adding a metatarsal pad to the ezWalker™ is a minimal charge with a maximum benefit. However, rigid Hammer Toes/Mallet Toes will not be affected by a metatarsal pad but the pad will free up pressure on the forefoot and is always a good option for relief. HTP Heel Seats can offer relief to Hammer Toes by securing your heel in the shoe, keeping the forefoot from sliding forward and crowding the toes, adding anti-shock to the heel strike, allowing more overall comfort.

Make sure you are fitting your shoes properly. Have your fit checked regularly and remember the size on the measuring device is only a reference. Mass manufactured shoes are NOT all created equal. Refer to the Shoe Fitting Reference Guide for proper guidelines on how to best fit your shoes.

In the case of Flexible Hammer Toes, products like hammer toe crests and hammer toe splints are designed to relieve pain by holding down the Hammer Toe. Other products such as gel toe shields and caps are also recommended for the rigid toe deformities to eliminate friction between the shoe and the toe joint while providing lubrication and comfort. Use an ezWalker™ with any one and/or combination of these products along with a proper toe box shoe for overall relief.

If your Hammer Toes/Mallet toes become inflamed, heavily callused, develop open sores, or bleed you must consult your doctor for proper treatment. Left untreated, these complications are at risk for infection and can lead to a loss of toes or worse.