I have what could be the beginning of a "hammer toe" on my third toe of one foot. Does anyone know what is available here in the way of toe straighteners or a DIY idea for one. I have really only noticed it the last few days after being up and down a stepladder and caused some pain and inflammation in the joint. This is very early stage and I want to cure it while I can .

However I am going to be susceptible on that foot as it is "wired " different to the other.

ie on one foot if I move the big toe the one next to it moves too. However on this (left) foot, I move the big toe and the third one moves (one in between stays still). I have noticed it before but it seems this anatomical thing is going to give me problems!

I haven't seen them in stores here, but you can eadily buy toe separaters online.

Those foam things used in pedicures may also hrlp when you are sitting or lying down but not really suitable for walking.

May I ask if you have had, in the recent past, a Plasil ( Metoclopromide ) injection ?

Alternatively could it a small fracture ?

I was highly allergic to Plasil which has led to curled toes in both feet. As the allergic response also caused loss of feeling within the feet, I have fractured some toes which are curling more than others.

I could find nothing on the market to bind the toes and keep them straight, apart from taping them together.

What I have used are the white fabric working gloves from a 20 Baht shop. I cut off the appropriate finger size from the gloves to fit the damaged toe and adjacent toes, taped them together and slip them over the toes. I normally wear this at night but also in the house if there is discomfort.

Not sure if any of the above is relevant but may be of use.

Thanks I think I will have to tape it to straighten. It is not actually bent at rest. But if I don't do something about it now it will probably get that way. It's a probably only because it is wired to the big toe!

No injections or allergies , it is just overuse and dodgy anatomy.

I saw some toe cushions online but know if they would hold it straight when I use my foot. Tape is looking like the best option.

google for hallux valgus

Not a bunion (hallux valgus).

This is the proximal interphalangeal joint on the middle toe. It is being pushed upwards probably due to the fact its ligaments seem to work in conjunction with the big toe.

My mom had hammer toes and hot foot baths helped alleviate the pain and reduced cramping but didn't cure them.

I wonder if regular foot massage would be useful. So inexpensive in Thailand, maybe worth a try.