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Hammer Toe: Causes, Treatments, and the Benefits of Barefoot Shoes

Dear Mom,

I hope that you don't read any of my blogs. I know that you don't, as I feel like that would not be something of interest to you, but just in case. Sorry in advance.

I was over at my Mom's house last night and she showed me that she was "getting hammer toe". What in the heck is that? Enter google. And now I’m just mad... Because it can so easily be avoided. Modern day shoes are SO frustrating... Yeah I'm looking at you Nike, Adidas, Hoka, Converse, Skechers... 

This is what I discovered:

Hammer toe is a condition that affects the toes, causing them to bend and curl in an abnormal way, resembling a hammer. It most commonly affects the second, third, and fourth toes and can be caused by several factors, including genetics, wearing tight shoes, and injuries.

Raising little ones with feet that need room to move? Shop The Low Top →


To avoid hammer toe, it's essential to wear properly fitting shoes with plenty of space in the toe box to allow the toes to move freely. It's also important to choose shoes with a low or zero-drop heel and a flexible sole to reduce pressure on the toes.

If you already have hammer toe, there are several treatment options available, including wearing orthotics or special shoes designed to alleviate pressure on the affected toes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct severe cases of hammer toe.

Barefoot shoes can also be helpful in preventing and treating hammer toe. These shoes are designed to mimic the sensation of walking barefoot and encourage the toes to spread out and move naturally. They provide a wide toe box and flexible sole, allowing the toes to move and grip the ground, which can help strengthen the muscles in the feet and prevent further deformities.

It's important to note that while barefoot shoes can be helpful for some people, they may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with pre-existing foot conditions or injuries. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your footwear or exercise routine.

Mom... I'm getting you barefoot shoes for Mother's Day this year. #yourewelcome

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