Diagnostic Code 5282 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Hammer toe is a deformity where a toe bends abnormally at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like or claw-like shape. It can affect any toe but is most common in the second through fifth toes. The bent position causes the top of the toe to rub against shoes, creating painful corns and calluses. Over time the joint can become rigid and permanently fixed in the bent position. Veterans frequently develop hammer toes from years of wearing tight military boots that crowd the toes, combined with the pounding of running and marching.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | |
| 10% |
Podiatric examination documenting the toe deformities, Imaging showing the bony alignment of affected toes, Documentation of which toes are affected on each foot, Records of corns, calluses, or skin breakdown caused by the deformity, Evidence linking the condition to service, including boot-wearing history