Hammer toes and mallet toes are closely related conditions. They both refer to a curled toe with an abnormal bend in the middle of its joint.

Sometimes hammer and mallet toes are hereditary, but they can also be caused by outside forces. While injury and arthritis can contribute to hammer toes, footwear that is too short or heels that are too high are thought to be the most common causes of the condition. In these cases, your toes are pressed to the front of your footwear, causing them to be permanently bent into hammer- or claw-like shapes. The condition is often painful.

• Bent toes with a hammer- or mallet-like appearance

• Frequent calluses and/or corns around the toes

from Schuler Shoes' Board Certified Pedorthist

This is not a medical diagnosis but a footwear recommendation to relieve symptoms. It's meant to supplement your doctor's treatment plan. 

A shoe with a deeper, broader toe box will help accommodate the shape of your toes and prevent them from rubbing against each other or the front of the shoe.

A firm insole with a deep heel cup can keep the foot properly aligned, distributing pressure across your entire foot and preventing strain on your toe joints. A metatarsal pad can help relieve pain and improve foot function. Brands that make insoles with these features include Birkenstock, Prothotic, and Vasalli.

If hammer or mallet toes are causing you frequent pain, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss treatment options. 

Wearing the right footwear can help you manage your condition. At Schuler Shoes, our knowledgeable board-certified pedorthists (CPeds) act as extensions of your provider’s care, offering tailored solutions and ensuring your perfect fit.

References: Mayo Clinic