Dr. Salma Aziz, D.P.M, M.S.

Hammer Toes

What Are Hammer Toes? …
“In general, the term 'hammer toe' describes a buckling of any of the toe joints. Joints at the end or the middle of the toe, as well as the joint near the ball of the foot, may be affected. Toe joints usually curl because of a muscle imbalance or tight tendons. Hammer toes vary in severity and in the number of joints and toes involved"

Types of Hammer Toes
Hammer toes may be flexible or rigid, depending on the joint’s ability to move. A flexible joint may become more rigid as you age.
 
Treatment: If your symptoms are mild, changing shoes may be all the treatment you need. Using a splint or pad to hold your toes straight also may help. You may also try cushioning corns and calluses with felt padding. If your symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed. The type of procedure often depends on whether your toe joints are flexible or rigid.
 
Flexible Joints: To release a buckled joint, the tendon (often the bottom one) is cut and repositioned.
Rigid Joint: A piece of bone may be removed to help straighten a rigid bone.