What Are Hammer Toes?
Hammer toes are a common toe deformity where one or more of the smaller toes (usually the second, third, or fourth) bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. This condition can be flexible in its early stages but may become rigid and painful over time if left untreated.
At Tooronga Podiatry, we regularly treat patients from Tooronga, Malvern, Glen Iris, Armadale, and surrounding suburbs who are experiencing discomfort or mobility issues due to hammer toes. Whether caused by footwear, genetics, or underlying foot mechanics, our team is here to help you find relief and restore function.
What Causes Hammer Toes?
Hammer toes can develop due to a variety of factors, including:
Poorly fitting shoes – Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can force toes into a bent position.
Muscle imbalance – When the muscles and tendons around the toe become imbalanced, they can pull the toe into a bent shape.
Foot structure – Flat feet, high arches, or bunions can contribute to abnormal toe positioning.
Arthritis – Inflammatory joint conditions can lead to joint deformities.
Trauma – Injuries to the toe can result in long-term structural changes.
Symptoms of Hammer Toes
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common signs include:
A toe that bends downward at the middle joint
Pain or discomfort when wearing shoes
Corns or calluses on the top of the toe or ball of the foot
Redness, swelling, or inflammation
Restricted movement or stiffness in the toe
If left untreated, hammer toes can become rigid and may require surgical correction.
What Treatment Options Are There?
At Tooronga Podiatry, we offer a range of conservative and supportive treatments to manage hammer toes and prevent progression. Our goal is to relieve pain, improve toe alignment, and help you stay active.
1. Footwear Advice
Wearing the right shoes is essential. We recommend:
Shoes with a wide toe box
Low heels
Soft, stretchable materials
Avoiding tight or pointed shoes
Our podiatrists can help you select footwear that accommodates your toe shape and reduces pressure.
2. Custom Orthotics
Orthotic inserts can help correct underlying foot mechanics and reduce strain on the toes. We design custom orthotics to support your foot structure and improve alignment.
3. Toe Splints & Padding
We may use splints or pads to gently straighten the toe and relieve pressure on corns or calluses.
4. Stretching & Strengthening Exercises
Targeted exercises can help improve muscle balance and flexibility, especially in the early stages of hammer toe development.
5. Callus & Corn Management
We provide professional care to reduce painful corns and calluses caused by friction and pressure.
6. Referral for Surgical Consultation
If the toe becomes rigid or conservative treatments are no longer effective, we may refer you to a trusted podiatric or orthopaedic surgeon for further evaluation.
Why Tooronga Podiatry?
Choosing the right podiatrist is key to managing hammer toes effectively. Here’s why patients across East Melbourne trust Tooronga Podiatry:
Experienced Team
Our team of five podiatrists brings decades of combined experience in treating toe deformities and foot pain. We stay up to date with the latest techniques to ensure the best outcomes.
Personalised Care
We take the time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. Every treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs.
Local & Accessible
With clinics in Tooronga and East Melbourne, we’re conveniently located for patients in Malvern, Glen Iris, Armadale, and Stonnington.
Family-Friendly & Honest
As a family-run clinic, we pride ourselves on being friendly, professional, and honest. If we can’t help, we’ll guide you to someone who can.
Home Visits & Aged Care Services
We offer home visit podiatry and residential aged care services for patients who need care in the comfort of their own home.
Book an Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or changes in your toe shape, don’t wait. Early treatment can prevent further complications and help you stay mobile and pain-free.
📍 Visit Tooronga Podiatry—your trusted local podiatrist for hammer toe treatment in Tooronga, Malvern, Glen Iris, and East Melbourne.
📞 Call us or book online to schedule your consultation today.