Hammer Toe

What it feels like

A toe that has curled and rubs in the shoe. While it's still flexible, wide shoes and gentle stretching can help maintain movement. Move slowly and stop if any exercise sharply increases your pain.

Also called: curled toe, toe rubbing in shoe

The exercises we give you

1. Toe Separator Stretch
2. Towel Toe Curls
3. Marble Pickup
4. Toe Splay
5. Resistance Band Toe Exercise
6. Foot Rolling Stretch

Your handout shows how to do each one. How many, and how often, is set for you at the clinic — it depends on the stage you are at.

Living with it

Do this programme once or twice a day. Choose shoes with a wide, deep toe box to reduce pressure on the bent joint. If you have diabetes, check your feet daily for skin changes, since pressure points can lead to sores.

Open the exercise sheet

Pictures, how many and how often, and what it should feel like. Free, and printable.

If the toe becomes rigid or painful despite these measures, please return to discuss further options.