Shoes for Hammer Toes

Hammertoe, Claw Toe, and Mallet Toe refer to toes that take on a bent or contracted position in which muscles and tendons tighten and shorten. Even though all three conditions look quite similar, they actually involve different joints of the toe.

• Hammertoe forms in the middle toe joint. Its bent appearance causes the toe to resemble the head of a hammer.
• Claw Toe forms in the base joint that joins the toe to the rest of the foot. When this joint constricts, the toe takes on a claw-like appearance.
• Mallet Toe is a deformity at the end of the toe. As the end joint constricts, the end of the toe looks somewhat like a mallet.

Shoes are often the culprit of all three toe conditions. Shoes that are too short and narrow, shoes with pointed toes, and shoes with high heels restrict the toes by bending them and forcing them into unnatural positions. Over time, muscles and tendons shorten, making it impossible for toes to flatten out in a healthy position.

Sometimes these toe deformities are the result of heredity or medical issues including diabetes, arthritis, and stroke. Even the simple trauma from stubbing your toe can initiate these toe conditions.

1. Begin with good shoes for hammer toes and get the right fit. When shopping for hammertoe shoes, always get both feet measured, making sure that you allow enough room for your toes. Look for shoes with a deeper, fuller toe box to avoid any pressures that potentially cause calluses and corns. The best hammertoe shoes offer the highest degree of comfort with uppers constructed of soft mesh, supple leathers, or quality man-made materials. Soft soles provide soft flexibility and are an important feature of a good hammertoe shoe.

2. Proper insoles for hammertoes can offer relief. The Pressure Relief insole features a medical-grade plastazote cover that is extremely soft with a pillow-like feel. ABZORB® technology inside provides high levels of cushioning and protection from the shock of ground reaction forces, even in the later stages of this condition when the tips of hammertoes claw down into the footbed of shoes.

3. A Hammertoe Cushion is an over-the-counter accessory that relieves pressure on toe tips. Its soft loop gently slips onto the toe while the crest shape design underneath cradles and supports bent toes from the bottom side.

4. Toe Protectors are stretchable sleeves that slip over the toes to relieve the pressure and friction from hammertoes.