Try 4 Targeted Solutions for Hammertoe Relief!
Does it feel like your toes are constantly gripping the ground? Do you have painful corns on the tops of your toes or calluses on the very tips?
You are likely dealing with hammertoe (or its cousins, claw toe and mallet toe). This condition causes the muscles and tendons in your toes to become imbalanced, forcing the joints to curl downward.
The result isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it’s a mechanical one. That curl puts intense pressure on the tips of your toes and pushes the knuckles up against your shoes. Fortunately, a simple, specialized cushion can often provide immediate relief by realigning and supporting the toe. And no one makes a better option than the team at PediFix!
Read on for a guide to 4 of our most popular solutions, then find the one that fits your feet.
1. The “Lift” Solution: Visco-GEL® Hammer ToeCrutch®
Best For: Toes that are curled under and have painful corns on the top knuckle.
If your toe feels “heavy” or drags, this unique device acts exactly like its name implies: a crutch. The Visco-GEL® Hammer ToeCrutch® features a contoured pad that sits under the toe, gently lifting it to relieve pressure on the sensitive tip.
Why it works:
- Dual Action: While the pad lifts the toe from the bottom, a soft, extra-wide Visco-GEL® loop goes over the top.
- Corn Protection: This gel loop cushions and softens those painful “knuckle corns” that rub against your shoe.
- Shock Absorption: It takes the weight off the toe tip, making walking significantly more comfortable.
- Easy to Use: Effective for weeks, the Visco-GEL® Hammer ToeCrutch® fits inside most shoes and comes in several sizes: 13mm, 14mm, and 16mm.
2. The “Support” Solution: Hammer Toe Crests
Best For: Filling the gap under bent toes and relieving ball-of-foot pain.
When your toes curl, they lift off the ground, putting extra stress on the ball of your foot (the metatarsals). The PediFix® Hammer Toe Crests are anatomically shaped to fill the gap!
Why it works:
- Reduces Stress: It helps distribute weight more evenly, easing pain in the forefoot.
- Choice of Material: You can choose between Deluxe Suede or Felt depending on your texture preference.
- Secure Fit: An adjustable elastic toe loop keeps the crest securely in place all day without messy adhesives.
- Multi-Purpose: Prevents corns, calluses, and blisters!
3. The “Soothing” Solution: Visco-GEL® Hammer Toe Cushion
Best For: Sensitive feet, blisters, or those who want a softer touch.
If you want relief but hate the feeling of felt or fabric, this is your answer. The Visco-GEL® Hammer Toe Cushion uses our exclusive soft gel to support bent-under toes.
Why it works:
- Instant Comfort: The gel instantly softens and soothes. It’s ideal if you have rigid corns or blisters that are tender to the touch.
- Smart Design: It features a “gel ring” loop that holds the cushion in place comfortably. No adhesives, no hassle!
- Versatile: It helps alleviate pressure on toe tips and provides comfort for ball-of-foot pain associated with claw or arthritic toes.
- Comes In Convenient Sizes: Available for the left or right foot. Also comes in a universal “one size fits all” version!
Learn more about this product by checking out our video! It features functional podiatrist Emily Splichal, who does a deep dive into the benefits from a clinical perspective.
4. The “Firm” Solution: FELTastic® Hammer Toe Cushion
Best For: Those who need sturdy, reliable support to straighten the toe.
Sometimes, you need a firmer material to get the job done. The PediFix® FELTastic® Hammer Toe Cushion offers robust support to prop up bent-under toes.
Why it works:
- Firm Support: The felt material doesn’t compress as easily as foam or gel, providing a consistent “splinting” effect to keep the toe aligned.
- Adjustable Control: The tailorable strap allows you to control the fit, ensuring the cushion stays exactly where you need it to relieve tip pressure.
- Ideal For Improving Mobility: This is the perfect solution for those who need assistance maintaining their mobility on walks, particularly when pain is preventing them from doing so.
Don’t “Just Live” With Hammertoe Pain
You take thousands of steps a day. You shouldn’t have to wince with every single one!
Whether you need the lifting power of the ToeCrutch, the soothing feel of Visco-GEL, or the firm support of FELTastic, we have a solution to help you walk comfortably again.
Not sure which is right for you? Ask your foot care specialist or try a few options to see which material your feet prefer!