A hammer toe is a toe that has an abnormal bend in its middle joint. The bend forces the toe to flex downward into the shape of a hammer, hence the name hammer toe (or mallet toe). Hammer toe usually appears on the 2nd or 3rd toe and while it can be present at birth, it usually develops over time as a result of wearing ill-fitting shoes or arthritis. Hammertoes can be quite painful, but they are treatable.

How is it prevented and treated? The very best way for men to prevent hammer toe condition is to avoid wearing shoes that are too narrow or too tight. Certain toe exercises like picking up small objects with your toe, and stretching and massaging the joint can also help. Treatment of hammer toes also means wearing special men’s shoes for hammertoes. Men’s hammertoe shoes should have a wide and deep toe box to accommodate the misshapen toes. Shoes for men with hammertoes should also have anatomical orthotic insoles that support the feet and can help prevent the progression of the deformity. If a corn or callus develops on the joint as a result of the hammer toe, a pumice stone after a warm foot soak can be used to gently file the toe. Toe exercises like curling, extending and spreading the toes are also useful treatment measures.