Hammer, Claw, and Mallet Toes-Explore the Differences Hammer, claw, and mallet toes can all be regarded as toe deformities whereby toes are bent into odd positions. They can cause pain and discomfort, and lead to further issues such as corns and bursas. These problems usually happen in the four smaller toes How do toe deformities differ? A hammer toe usually bends down towards the floor and affects the middle of the joint, which causes the middle joint to rise. This particular problem normally happens to your second toe and it is often accompanied by bunions. A claw toe can affect all 4 smaller toes at the same time. In such a condition, the toes bend up at the joint where the foot and the toe meet, the middle joints get bent down along with the joints that are closest to the tip of the toes. This leads the toe to get curled down towards the floor. A mallet toe affects the joint located closest to the tip of your toe. Often it affects the second toe. Hammer, claw, and mallet toes - A Note on Symptoms Toe deformities can cause significant discomfort, you may find it difficult to find shoes that comfortably fit. Your toes may also rub against your footwear and lead to corns or bursas. How are hammer, claw, and mallet toes diagnosed? A foot and ankle specialist, such as leading surgeon Mr Kaser Nazir at 17 Harley Street, will initially carry out an assessment. X-rays are performed to assess the toe deformi