Hammer Toe Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to hammer toe. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.

A toe that buckles under
Corns on the top of a toe
Calluses on the sole of the foot or bottom of the toe
Pain in the middle joint of a toe
Discomfort on the top of a toe
Difficulty finding any shoes that fit comfortably
Cramping in a toe, and sometimes also the foot and leg
Infections or ulcers in a toe
Redness or swelling at a toe joint
Difficult or painful motion of a toe joint
Pain in the ball of the foot or at the base of a toe

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination of the toe.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2025 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.