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Hammer / Claw / Mallet Toe

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Hammer toe, claw toe, and mallet toe describe deformities where the toes become abnormally bent, causing discomfort, friction against footwear, and often corns. They frequently coexist with bunions.

Differences Between Types

• Hammer toe: Toe bends downward at the middle joint, causing it to rise up. Most commonly affects the second toe.
• Claw toe: Toe bends up at the base and down at the middle joint, like a claw. Often affects all four lesser toes.
• Mallet toe: Toe bends down at the joint nearest the toenail. Most commonly affects the second and third toes.

Symptoms

• Pressure and discomfort when wearing shoes
• Pain when walking
• Corns or calluses over the bent joint
• Arthritic or stiff joints

Causes

An imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. Can be caused or worsened by bunions, foot type, injury, or inappropriate footwear.

Non-Surgical Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone injections for pain relief
• Physiotherapy to stretch tight muscles and tendons
• Custom orthotics to prevent progression
• Toe splints or pads to realign the toe

Surgery

If conservative measures fail, surgical correction can return the toe to its natural alignment. Mr Hester will advise on the specific procedure for your case. Recovery is typically around 8 weeks, with initial healing of skin and soft tissue in the first 10–14 days. Walking is possible in a post-operative shoe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you reverse a hammer toe without surgery? No — surgery is the only way to restore natural alignment, though conservative measures can slow progression and relieve symptoms.

Do hammer toes get worse with age? Yes, particularly without treatment or with footwear that aggravates the condition.

Is hammer toe surgery painful? Performed under anaesthetic — you will not feel pain during surgery. Pain relief is provided during recovery.