Toe Stuck? Why Your Hammer Toe Is Curling and What to Do Next

If your toe looks bent, curled, or feels "stuck" in a strange position, you may be dealing with hammer toe. This common foot condition can start subtly but may worsen over time if ignored. The good news? Many cases can be managed effectively, especially when caught early.

Here's what you need to know about hammer toe, why it happens, and the right medical next steps.

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What Is Hammer Toe?

Hammer toe is a deformity where one of your smaller toes (most often the second, third, or fourth) bends downward at the middle joint. Instead of lying flat, the toe looks curled—almost like a claw or hammer.

In early stages, the toe may still be flexible. Over time, it can become rigid and harder to straighten.

Common signs include:

• A bent or curled toe
• Pain in the affected toe
• Corns or calluses from friction against shoes
• Redness or swelling
• Difficulty fitting into shoes comfortably

While hammer toe may seem like a minor cosmetic issue at first, it can become painful and interfere with walking if not addressed.

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Why Is Your Hammer Toe Curling?

Hammer toe develops because of an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that control toe movement. When these structures aren't working together properly, the toe can become stuck in a bent position.

Here are the most common causes:

1. Tight or Poorly Fitting Shoes

Shoes that are:

• Too tight
• Too narrow
• High-heeled

…can force your toes into a cramped position. Over time, this can shorten tendons and muscles, leading to a permanent bend.

High heels are especially problematic because they push your toes forward into the shoe box.

2. Muscle Imbalance

Your toes rely on a balance between flexor (curling) and extensor (straightening) muscles. If one group becomes stronger or tighter than the other, the toe may bend abnormally.

This imbalance can be triggered by:

• Foot structure issues
• Long-standing shoe pressure
• Nerve problems

3. Foot Structure and Genetics

Some people naturally have foot shapes that increase risk, including:

• High arches
• Flat feet
• A longer second toe

If hammer toe runs in your family, you may be more likely to develop it.

4. Arthritis

Inflammatory joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can weaken joints and alter toe alignment.

5. Nerve Damage

Conditions like diabetes or neurological disorders may affect muscle control in the foot. If you have nerve symptoms, it's important to get evaluated promptly.

Since foot and lower leg issues are often connected through the tendons and muscles that run along the back of your leg, you may also want to check if Achilles tendon pain is contributing to your symptoms.

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Flexible vs. Rigid Hammer Toe

Understanding the stage of your hammer toe is important for treatment.

Flexible Hammer Toe

• The toe can still be manually straightened.
• Usually less painful.
• Easier to treat without surgery.

Rigid Hammer Toe

• The toe is fixed in a bent position.
• More painful.
• May require more advanced treatment.

Early intervention makes a significant difference.

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When Should You See a Doctor?

You should speak to a doctor if:

• The toe is painful or worsening
• You develop open sores or ulcers
• You have diabetes and notice any toe deformity
• Walking becomes difficult
• The toe becomes stiff and cannot be straightened

If you have diabetes, circulation problems, or nerve damage, do not delay care. Small foot issues can become serious quickly in these cases.

Any signs of infection—such as redness, warmth, drainage, or fever—require immediate medical attention.

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Medical Next Steps for Hammer Toe

Treatment depends on how advanced the hammer toe is.

1. Footwear Changes (First-Line Treatment)

This is often the most important step.

Choose shoes that:

• Have a wide toe box
• Are low-heeled
• Provide cushioning
• Do not squeeze the toes

Avoid high heels and pointed shoes.

Sometimes this change alone can reduce pain and prevent progression.

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2. Padding and Orthotics

Your doctor may recommend:

• Toe pads or cushions to reduce friction
• Custom orthotics to correct foot mechanics
• Toe splints to help maintain alignment

These can relieve pressure and prevent corns or calluses.

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3. Stretching and Exercises

Exercises may help if the toe is still flexible.

Common examples include:

• Gently straightening the toe with your hands
• Picking up small objects with your toes
• Towel scrunch exercises
• Calf stretching (tight calves can affect foot mechanics)

A physical therapist or podiatrist can guide you on proper technique.

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4. Medications

If there is inflammation or arthritis, your doctor may suggest:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
• Topical anti-inflammatory creams
• In rare cases, a corticosteroid injection

Medication treats symptoms—not the structural problem—so it's typically combined with other approaches.

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5. Treatment for Corns and Calluses

Do not attempt to cut corns yourself.

A medical professional can:

• Safely trim thickened skin
• Recommend medicated pads
• Reduce friction sources

Improper home treatment can lead to infection, especially in people with diabetes.

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6. Surgery (When Conservative Treatment Fails)

Surgery may be recommended if:

• Pain persists despite non-surgical care
• The toe is rigid
• Daily activities are limited

Surgical options vary based on severity and may include:

• Tendon release
• Joint realignment
• Bone removal or fusion

Most procedures are outpatient. Recovery time varies but often involves several weeks of limited activity.

Surgery is generally safe, but as with any procedure, there are risks. Discuss benefits and risks carefully with your doctor.

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Can Hammer Toe Be Prevented?

While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce risk by:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes
• Avoiding prolonged high heel use
• Maintaining healthy weight
• Stretching regularly
• Addressing foot pain early

Small changes today can prevent bigger problems later.

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What Happens If You Ignore Hammer Toe?

Untreated hammer toe can lead to:

• Chronic pain
• Skin breakdown
• Ulcers (especially in people with diabetes)
• Reduced mobility
• Joint stiffness

It rarely becomes life-threatening on its own. However, complications—especially infections—can become serious if neglected.

That's why it's important to address symptoms early.

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The Bottom Line

Hammer toe is common and often manageable—especially when caught early. The curling happens because of muscle imbalance, tight footwear, structural foot issues, or underlying medical conditions.

Most cases improve with:

• Better footwear
• Padding or orthotics
• Exercises
• Early medical evaluation

If your toe is becoming rigid, painful, or interfering with walking, it's time to speak to a doctor. This is especially important if you have diabetes, nerve damage, or circulation issues.

While hammer toe is rarely dangerous by itself, complications can occur if left untreated. Do not ignore persistent pain, swelling, open sores, or signs of infection.

If you're experiencing discomfort in multiple areas of your foot or lower leg, it may help to evaluate whether Achilles tendon pain is also playing a role in your symptoms.

Most importantly, speak to a qualified healthcare professional about any foot condition that is worsening, painful, or affecting your ability to walk. Early care leads to better outcomes—and often simpler solutions.