Hammertoe is a common foot condition that can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. It occurs when one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Left untreated, hammertoe can lead to pain, calluses, or sores due to friction with shoes.
At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, we specialize in helping patients find relief from foot conditions like hammertoe. Contact us today to book a consultation!
Visiting an orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.
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A hammertoe is a deformity that affects the second, third, or fourth toe. The condition causes the toe to bend upward at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. Over time, this unnatural bend can stiffen, making it challenging to move or straighten the toe. Toe muscles may also become tight or weakened as a result of this condition, worsening the deformity. In more severe cases, the toe may become fixed in this position.
Hammer toe is caused by a muscle imbalance in the toe muscles. These muscles work together to straighten and bend the toes. If a toe is bent for too long, the muscles and joints stiffen, making it hard to keep the toe straight.
Several factors can contribute to the development of a hammertoe, including:
The signs and symptoms of hammertoe can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
Hammertoe surgery is a corrective outpatient procedure aimed at realigning the affected toe and relieving associated symptoms. There are different surgical techniques, depending on the severity of the deformity.
In less severe cases, a tendon transfer or release may be performed to allow the toe to straighten. For more advanced deformities, bone removal or joint fusion may be necessary to restore normal toe positioning.
Hammertoe surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day. The goal is to relieve pain, improve foot function, and allow the toe to straighten for better alignment.
As with any surgical procedure, hammertoe surgery carries certain risks. While most patients experience positive outcomes, potential complications include:
Your orthopedic surgeons will discuss these risks with you before the procedure and take steps to minimize them.
Hammer Toe surgery is typically considered when conservative hammer toe treatment options do not improve the condition over time.
You may be a good candidate for hammertoe surgery if:
Your surgeon will evaluate your condition and overall health to determine if surgery is the best option for you.
Preparing for hammertoe surgery involves a few simple steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. You can prepare for hammer toe surgery by:
You can expect not to have any pain during your surgery. There will be some discomfort after surgery. However, this is usually well tolerated as patients have dealt with the pain in the toes for some time before surgery.
Depending on the severity of your condition, your surgeon will perform one of the three following surgical procedures:
The recovery time for hammer toe surgery will vary from person to person. It is normal to have swelling. Typically, any stitches or temporary pins will be removed a few weeks after surgery. Depending on your procedure, the internal pins or implants may remain in place long-term.
Your doctor will recommend specific exercises for you to perform to help you improve your strength and heal. Post-operation instructions usually include:
If you have a history of hammer toe, there is a possibility that it can develop again. To lower your risk and avoid other possible complications, it is imperative to wear comfortable footwear and follow all the instructions you receive to protect your toe during your recovery. With advancements in surgical techniques, the recurrence rate of hammertoes has significantly decreased.
If you’re struggling with the discomfort and limitations caused by hammertoe, Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center is here to help. Our expert surgeons offer advanced treatments, including reconstructive surgery, to relieve your pain and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options for hammertoe correction!
Medically reviewed by Roberto A. Brandão, DPM