12 Best Expert-Approved Hammer Toe Straighteners Of 2024 – Buying Guide
Experience instant relief from your hammertoe without going under the knife!
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Do you ever feel like your toes are not straight? Well, you may have a condition called hammertoe. It’s a deformity that’s caused due to an imbalance of muscles and leads to a bent toe that resembles a hammer. A few hammer toe straighteners may help you fix a moderate case of hammertoe without having to go under the knife. If this condition is left untreated, it can cause you much pain and worsen as time goes by. A moderate case of hammertoe can often be treated by wearing comfortable shoes, changing your lifestyle, and using an orthotic tool called a hammertoe straightener. So here’s a list of the best ones that we’ve come across.
In This Article
What Is A Hammer Toe?
A hammer toe is a bent toe that arises due to the weakening of muscles. The weak muscle shortens the tendons, which makes your toe curl downwards. This could happen because of your genes or wearing short shoes.
If you do not address the issue, it could affect your walk and lead to other foot problems like soreness, calluses, hallux varus, and blisters. While corrective footwear and splinting can help in treating this problem, severe cases will require surgery. This deformity may affect one toe or several toes. Usually, when you develop it on one of your toes, it has a domino effect on the neighboring ones.
While severe cases may require surgery, moderate cases of hammer toe can be treated at home through exercise, stretching, and using a hammer toe straightener.
Do Hammer Toe Straighteners Really Work?
A hammer toe straightener realigns the affected toe by wrapping itself around it and stretches the contracted tendon, thereby acting as a straightening aid and flattening the toe. It prevents the rubbing of toes against each other and relieves pain and discomfort. It slips in between the toes and can sometimes be worn even with shoes. It helps you walk, run, and move around painlessly and prevents this condition from worsening.
If you are planning to try a straightener to fix your hammer toe, you have to first understand the types and their features. Let’s get to it.
What Are The Different Types Of Hammer Toe Straighteners?
- Gel Separators: These straighteners are made of soft gel. They separate your toes and align them to a natural position. They help stretch and relax the muscles, tendons, and joints and relieve pain.
- Toe Wrap: They are thin, flexible bandages used to wrap the affected toe with the neighboring toe using a Velcro strap that will align and flatten it.
- Toe Socks: These socks have holes cut at the top with cushions between the toes. They separate and align the toes.
- Ball Of Foot Pads: These pads cushion the balls of your feet under the toes, provide support, and relieve pain.
- Crest Pads: These gel- or felt-made pads wrap themselves around the hammer toe. They are attached to a pad beneath that helps straighten the toe gradually.
Given all the varieties of toe straighteners and the different brands available on the market, it can be a bit confusing to find the right one for you. So, we have curated a list of the 12 best hammer toe straighteners. Read on to find out all about them.
12 Best Hammer Toe Straighteners
1. Best Latex-Free: ZenToes Gel Toe Cap Protect
The ZenToes Gel Toe Cap Protect has a slim design and can fit into your shoes easily. You can also wear it under your socks. It is made of high-quality, latex-free, and washable material and contains a cushion that protects hammer toes, ingrown nails, and corns and prevents the toes from rubbing against each other. The professional-grade cap fits securely on your toes and does not cause friction. It also provides moisturization to the tissues. The pack includes six toe caps.
Pros
- Latex-free
- Washable
- Flexible
- Slim design
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not durable
Pro TipTo avoid hammer toe in early stages, wear flats with heels less than 5 cm and go for open-toe footwear for long or bent toes.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 12,220 reviews claiming its efficacy.
2. Best For Instant Relief: YogaToes Gems
The YogaToes Gems provide instant relief from pain if you have bunions and hammer toes. These alignment accessories are spaced such that they can help in stretching and straightening the toes. They keep the toes equidistant from each other, preventing rubbing and any bacterial growth. The hypoallergenic gel moisturizes and softens the feet. Wear this well-designed straightening equipment for at least 15 minutes every day, and you will see a difference in your toe alignment.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- BPA-free
- Lead-free
- Soft
- Easy to put on and take off
- Value for money
Cons
- Can’t be worn under socks or with shoes
Quick TipDoctors recommend consistent foot exercises and stretching, such as curling and spreading the toes, to help improve the curvature.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 10,144 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
3. Best Anti-Slip: ZenToes Hammer Toe Separator Splints
The ZenToes Hammer Toe Wraps protect and heal broken toes and separate hammer toes. They are made of anti-slip fabric and can be used to fasten toes with small fractures. In the case of hammer toes, they wrap the affected toe with the neighboring toe and hold it in place, which allows it to straighten and flatten. The cushion provides protection to the toes and makes the whole process of healing painless. The professional-grade thin design and neutral color tone makes them suitable to wear under socks and with any shoes.
Pros
- One size fits all
- Reusable
- Comfortable
- High quality
- Can be worn under socks and inside shoes
- Anti-slip fabric
- Value for money
Cons
- Not for the pinky toe or big toe
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 10,479 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
ZenToes Gel Toe Cap Protect Best Latex-Free | YogaToes Gems Best For Instant Relief | ZenToes Hammer Toe Separator Splints Best Anti-Slip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | SEBS Gel | Medical grade gel | Fabric & Foam |
| Color | Beige | - | - |
| Dimensions | - | 7.14 x 5.67 x 1.81 inches | - |
| Dimensions | - | - | 1 x 4 x 6 inches |
| Weight | - | - | 0.63 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 12,220 | 10,144 | 10,479 |
| Price | $12.99 | $36.95 | $9.99 |
4. Best Adjustable Loop Design: PediFix Podiatrists’ Choice Toe Straightener
The PediFix Podiatrists’ Choice Toe Straightener separates and straightens crooked, broken, and hammer toes. It reduces accidental rubbing between the toes and aligns them perfectly. The slip-on cushion design comes with an adjustable loop that offers proper toe alignment solution. The soft, double-layered pad in the design helps in comforting the ball-of-the-foot area as well. It eases pain, prevents future hammertoe issues, and can be worn with any pair of shoes.
Pros
- Slip-on cushion design
- Adjustable loop feature
- Double-layered pad design
- Suitable for ball-of-the-foot relief
Cons
- None
5. Best With Medical-Quality Gel: DR JK Original Toe Straightener
The DR JK Original Toe Straightener provides relief from pain caused due to hammer toes. It separates and stretches out your toes and corrects hammer toes over time. This results-driven toe corrector and separator is made of medical-grade quality gel. It increases the space between the toes, prevents them from overlapping, and stretches them, relieving pain. It is an ideal choice for yogis, ballet dancers, and athletes and comes in a universal size.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Flexible
- Medical-quality gel
- Can be used during pedicures
Cons
- Can’t be worn for too long
6. Best Odor-Resistant: ZenToes Hammer Toe Straightener and Corrector
If your toes are overlapping, it can cause pain and imbalance and make walking difficult. It can also be bad for the muscles and joints. Thanks to the ZenToes Hammer Toe Straightener and Corrector, you don’t have to suffer through that anymore. It is made of medical-grade silicone gel material that prevents the toes from rubbing against each other. The medical quality silicone offers orthopedic support and is stain-, odor-, and sweat-resistant. This hammer toe straightener is lightweight and stretchy and can be worn all day. You can wear it with boots, high heels, or tennis shoes. It is also comfortable to wear while hiking, shopping, and running. These correction instruments come in a pair with three loops in each to keep all your toes separated.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Made of medical quality silicone
- Can be worn with shoes
- Stain-resistant
- Sweat-resistant
- Odor-resistant
- Can be worn all day
- Lightweight
- Stretchy
- Latex-free
- Washable
- Reusable
Cons
- Not for skinny toes
7. Best For Stability: PROFOOT Toe Straight
The PROFOOT Toe Straight is a lightly-padded, foam toe wrap that effectively encircles around the hammertoes to help stabilize and straighten them. The results-driven toe straightener separates and realigns the toes, relieves pain, and reduces discomfort. The thin foam loop in the design prevents painful rubbing and friction between the toes. It fits any shoe design, be it flats, pumps, boots, sneakers, or heels.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Stabilizes feet
- Customized fit
- Comfortable inside shoes
- Reusable
Cons
- None
8. Best Lightweight: Dr. Frederick’s Original Hammer Toe Treatment Set
If you are looking for an orthotic device developed with the help of medical professionals, your search ends with Dr. Frederick’s Original Hammer Toe Treatment Set. It reduces toe pain, prevents irritation, and is the perfect product for a hammer toe treatment aid. It is made of medical quality rubber that is soft, adjustable, and easy to slip on. The gel pads provide cushioning and support to the toes and work best when worn with socks. Loop them around the affected toe with the pad below to obtain symptomatic relief from hammer toe, corns, calluses, and blisters.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Easy to slip on
- Medical quality rubber
- Reusable
- Adjustable
- Can be worn under socks or inside shoes
Cons
- Can’t be worn for long
9. Best With Cushion Support: ViveSole Toe Splint
The ViveSole Toe Splint has an adjustable loop that wraps around a hammer toe to alleviate pressure from it, realign it, reduce pain, irritation, and discomfort, and help you walk easily. It can be worn under socks and is compatible with most shoes. It has a foam pad beneath the toes that provides cushion support to the ball of the foot.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Adjustable
- Ergonomic design
- Cushion support
- Can be worn under socks and with shoes
- Washable
- Reusable
Cons
- None
10. Best For Swollen Feet: Triim Fitness Toe Separator Socks
The Triim Fitness Toe Separator Yoga Gym Sports Massage Socks are perfect for runners, women who wear heels to work, and people with sensitive feet. They can also be used by kids and teens for sports activities. The results-driven socks are made of soft acrylic, cotton, and spandex mix. They can be worn just like regular socks, with the toes slipping out through the respective openings. This enables stretching and provides hammer toe pain relief. These socks help promote healthy blood circulation, prevent cramps, and provide relief for swollen feet. They keep your feet warm and can be worn while lounging at home, working in the kitchen, or going to sleep at night.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Kids and teen-friendly
- Keeps the feet warm
- Machine washable
Cons
- Available in one size
11. Best Ergonomic Fit: BIOSKIN Hammer Toe Straightener
The BIOSKIN Hammer Toe Straightener treats hammertoes, floating toes, and dorsal drifts with ease. The design of this Toe straightening device, gently wraps around the affected toe and promotes proper alignment. This treatment for hammer toe not only reduces swelling after a foot injury but also effectively aids in healing after a foot surgery. The T-strap in the design holds the toe in a neutral position and unloads the pressure on the plantar plate. This alignment tool also stretches the tight tendons on the top of the foot, allowing the damaged tissues to recover well. It can be worn with post-operative boots and with most pairs of shoes. You can also trim the strap for a customized fit as per your toe or foot size.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Adjustable
- Suitable for men and women
- Safe for post-surgery relief
Cons
- None
12. Best Orthopedic-Approved Design: Tuli’s Hammer RX Toe Straightener
The Tuli’s Hammer RX Toe Straightener aligns and straightens your toe while offering adequate and improved comfort. It can be used after a toe surgery to promote healing and alleviate the pain caused due to hammertoe. The straightener is made of Sof-Flex, a high-quality material that is soft and offers maximum breathability and flexibility. The adjustable straps in the design offer a customized fit. The soft-touch hook and loop closures carefully secure the straps without causing any irritation on your skin. It can be worn with any type of shoes, sandals, or even barefoot.
Pros
- Breathable material
- Flexible design
- Adjustable straps
- Comfortable hook and loop closures
- Easy to wear
- Orthopedic-approved
- Suitable for post-surgery healing
Cons
- None
With this comprehensive list, it should not be difficult for you to make the right choice. However, it is normal to be apprehensive while trying out a new product. So, to give you confidence, let’s find out if a hammer toe straightener can potentially cause any side effects.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Hammer Toe Straighteners?
A hammer toe straightener’s job is to realign the affected toe with the help of the neighboring toe/toes. In some cases, it can affect the healthy neighboring toe as bit as the toe straightener pulls on it.
However, if you follow the directions properly, wear it only for the right amount of time, and do the suggested activities, the chances of it affecting the neighboring toes are very slim. To get the maximum benefits and the minimum side effects from a hammer toe straightener, start using it as soon as you see any symptoms and before it worsens too much.
But before you decide on a hammer toe straightener, you have to understand the requirements of your condition. Let’s learn a bit about it.
How To Choose The Best Hammer Toe Straightener
Consider the following factors before buying a hammer toe straightener:
- Fit: Choosing the wrong fit could worsen your hammer toe; something too big would slip off, causing the toes to rub against each other; something too small could put pressure on the joints, injuring them. Make sure the hammer toe straightener you buy has a snug fit that stays on comfortably. Check out several reviewers’ experience to get an idea of the size of the product and how it might fit you.
- Time And Place: While some straighteners can be worn with shoes all day, allowing you to move around and do other activities, others are meant to be worn at home when you are relaxing. Some can be used even when you go to bed.
- Affected Toe(s): Some toe straighteners are for only one toe, while some others are for multiple toes. Make sure your straightener is compatible with the affected toe(s).
- Function: There are hammer toe straighteners in the form of socks that keep your feet warm; then there are those that moisturize your feet; there are also some that are perfect for sports. Choose one depending on the purpose, or watch review videos to understand the functionalities you need.
- Reviews: Read the reviews of people who have purchased the product and used it to get an idea about its quality and compatibility with different toe types and conditions.
While hammer toe is not irreversible, it is always better to prevent its occurrence. Let’s analyze some of the factors leading to a hammer toe.
What Causes Hammer Toe?
- Genetic Predisposition: If it is there in your genes, you can’t avoid it. If someone in your family has a hammer toe, there is a good chance that you might develop it too.
- Tight, Ill-Fitting Shoes: The next time you pick a pair of fancy shoes, make sure they fit you correctly. Ensure the heels are bearable, and your toes have space to breathe. Do not choose fashion over your foot health.
- Injury: You could also develop a hammer toe if someone has stepped on your toe hard or you have jammed it against a door.
- Health Conditions: Diseases like arthritis and diabetes can increase the chances of developing a deformed foot.
- Bunions: A bunion is a bony bump on the joint of the big toe. These painful swellings can also give birth to hammer toes.
- Arched Feet: An arched foot can also make the toes bend, causing this condition.
- Age: As we age, the risk of developing hammer toes increases.
- Toe Length: If your second toe is longer than your first, you are also at the risk of getting a hammer toe.
Most of the symptoms of hammer toe are visible and obvious. It is easy to detect this condition. Here are some symptoms of a hammer toe.
Is There A Way To Tell If You Are Developing A Hammer Toe?
Look for these signs:
- A bent, hammer-like toe
- Difficulty in walking
- Restriction in movement
- Calluses, corns, or soreness
- Inflammation at the joint of the toe
- Difficulty in straightening or flattening the toe
- Stiff middle joints
- Pain while wearing tight shoes or heels
- Redness and swelling
- Inability to flex or wiggle the toes
- Claw-like toes
Infographic: Guide To Choose Hammer Toe Straighteners
Hammertoe straighteners offer immense relief to people with bent toes. However, you need to be careful when choosing them to ensure the product fits your needs. Check out the infographic below for the factors you should consider before purchasing hammer toe straighteners.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
No doubt, hammer toe is a painful condition where your toes bend like a hammer. However, this can be treated in the initial stages through exercise, by wearing well-fitting shoes, and using a toe straightener. You may select the ZenToes Gel Toe Cap Protect if you need a sheath-style toe protector that is latex-free and prevents rubbing. The YogaToes Gems have an open-top design and are hypoallergenic while the PediFix Podiatrists’ Choice Toe Straightener offers a slip-on cushion design to protect the ball of the foot. Get any of the products listed above today and say goodbye to painful toes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can people with arthritis wear hammer toe straighteners?
People with arthritis sometimes have bent toes. Toe straighteners help straighten and flatten them and provide relief from pain. Even if the toes are not bent in people with arthritis, they can use the product to prevent the toes from bending. However, it is always best to seek the advice of a doctor when you have a medical condition like this.
How often should you wear a hammer toe straightener?
Some hammer toe straighteners can be worn all day and even at night while sleeping, while some of them come handy only when you are wearing shoes. A few others only need to be worn for a few minutes each day. Go through the instructions on the manual to find out how long you can wear them.
How long does it take for toe straighteners to work?
Toe straighteners typically work within four weeks of usage. However, it might take more time to show results if you don’t wear them regularly.
Are there any risks associated with hammer toe straighteners?
No, there aren’t any permanent risks associated with hammer toe straighteners. However, if worn without caution, they might temporarily make your toes go numb, stiff, or itchy.
Can hammer toes be treated by wearing special shoes to reverse the damage?
No, hammer toes cannot be reversed by wearing special shoes. The shoes can only offer temporary relief.
Can I straighten a hammer toe without surgery?
Yes, a toe straightener can help correct a hammertoe without surgery. However, the process demands time and patience.
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