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Shoes to Accommodate Hammertoes
What Are Hammertoes?
A hammertoe is a toe that is bent because of a weakened muscle, tendon, or ligament that holds the toe straight. A hammertoe will have an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe. The foot deformity can occur in one or more toes. A hammertoe may be able to be flexible, but over time the tendon can contract...
Shoes to Accommodate Hammertoes
What Are Hammertoes?
A hammertoe is a toe that is bent because of a weakened muscle, tendon, or ligament that holds the toe straight. A hammertoe will have an abnormal bend in the middle joint of the toe. The foot deformity can occur in one or more toes. A hammertoe may be able to be flexible, but over time the tendon can contract and tighten causing a permanent bend in the toe. The causes of hammertoes can be from poor fitting shoes (crowded toe box), broken or jammed toe, or weakened toe muscles from age or trauma. Age, toe length, and certain diseases (arthritis or diabetes) can make you more at risk for hammertoes.
How Can Shoes Help Those With Hammertoes?
Extra depth shoes and shoes with a wide toe-box work best for hammertoes because the toes have more room to spread out naturally in the shoe. Also, shoes with Lycra® or stretch knit uppers allow for the bent toe to expand in the shoe without painful rubbing that can cause corns or calluses. A flat or low-heeled shoe will put less pressure on the forefoot. This prevents the foot from being angled forward causing the toes to be crammed at the front of the shoe, which can be problematic for individuals with hammertoes. A good shoe for hammertoes will have stretch, lycra upper material at the toes to reduce friction and rubbing, a high and wide toe box, and a supportive insole to reduce discomfort in the toe joints.