Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes bend downward at the middle joint, creating a claw-like appearance. While more common in adults, it can also develop in children, often due to muscle imbalance, flat feet, or wearing shoes that are too tight. In growing feet, this abnormal bending may become more noticeable over time and can lead to rubbing, discomfort, or difficulty finding comfortable shoes. Early signs may include redness on top of the toe, or the child avoiding certain shoes or activities. In many cases, flexible hammer toes in children, where the toe can still be straightened manually. This indicates that the joint has not become rigid or fixed and can be managed with proper footwear, stretching exercises, and custom inserts to help guide foot alignment. If the toe becomes stiff or painful, further care may be needed. In this case, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can evaluate your child’s foot development and recommend the right treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in New Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.