A hammer toe is a deformity of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the second, third, fourth or fifth (relatively rare) toe, causing it to be permanently bent, resembling a hammer. This abnormality can create pressure on the foot when wearing shoes and cause discomfort and problems walking.

The symptoms of hammer toes / claw toes include:

•  Pain or irritation in the toe when wearing shoes.

• The emergence of corns (an accumulation of skin) on the top, side or tip of the toe, or between two toes. These corns are caused by continuous rubbing against shoes. They can be soft or hard, depending on where they are situated. 

• The emergence of calluses. Corns and calluses can be sore, making it difficult to find comfortable footware. Hammer toes are often painful, even on their own, because the joint itself is malformed.

Hammer toes are more often than not slight deformities which become progressively worse over time. In the first stages, they are quite supple and symptoms can generally be treated without surgery. However, if symptoms are left untreated, they can become more rigid and the only option will besurgery. Corns tend to worsen and will not disapear, even after the operation. In the most serious cases of hammer toes, open wounds can appear around the corns and become infected.

Because of the progressive nature of hammer toes, it is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Without surgery, hammer toes will not recuperate.

The information given here does not mean that you must not consult your GP.