Hammertoe is a foot deformity that usually results from wearing ill-fitting shoes. The condition is sometimes referred to as claw toe, crooked toe or mallet toe. It occurs when the second joint of the second, third or fourth toe becomes permanently bent so that it resembles a hammer. Hammertoe is especially associated with wearing high heels. (The height of the heel tends to push the foot forward so that the toes are forced into a bent position.) But any shoe with a particularly narrow or shallow toe box can lead to the foot deformity.

If you think you may have hammertoe, then perform this simple test. Sit in a chair and relax your feet. Gently rest your feet on the floor without putting too much pressure on them. A person with hammertoe will be unable to remain in a relaxed and resting position and keep the second joint of the toe flat. The toe will naturally curl off the floor.

In addition to ill-fitting shoes, hammertoe is associated with other foot deformities such as bunions, flat feet and high arches. If you have an existing foot deformity you may need to treat it first before you can deal with your hammertoe. Check your local drug store (or ask your podiatrist) about orthotic devices that can help alleviate pain, friction and pressure associated with bunions, flat feet and high arches.

The best thing to do for your hammertoe is to throw out your high heels or any shoes that pinch or hurt your feet. Look for shoes with a wide and deep toe box that will not force your toes into a bent position. You want to make sure that your toes have plenty of room to move and relax. When purchasing athletic shoes, look for shoes that are a half size larger than your normal size as feet tend to swell when you exercise.

If your hammertoe is rubbing against your shoes and causing you foot pain, look for corn pads and cushioning devices at your local drug store. These over-the-counter orthotic devices can reduce friction. It is important to protect the skin on the affected toe so that a secondary injury does not develop; your deformed toe is vulnerable to calluses, corns, blisters and foot ulcers.

In some instances, surgery is necessary to treat a hammertoe deformity. This usually occurs when the pain caused by the hammertoe is interfering with mobility, or when the toe is bent to such an extent that it cannot be straightened with at-home treatment.