How does a hammer toe slow you down?

Hammer toe pain can make every step feel uncomfortable. This condition occurs when one or more of the toe joints become abnormally bent, often due to muscle imbalance, ill-fitting shoes, or underlying foot issues like bunions or high arches. The result? Pain, stiffness, corns, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Over time, hammer toes can become rigid and harder to treat without medical help.

If you’re noticing discomfort while walking, redness or swelling in your toes, or developing painful pressure spots, it may be time to see a podiatrist. Early stages of hammer toe can often be treated with simple solutions like custom orthotics, toe exercises, and shoe changes. More advanced cases might require minor procedures to correct the joint. The key is not to wait—ignoring the pain can lead to permanent deformity. Address hammer toe pain early to stay active, mobile, and pain-free. Your feet deserve expert care.