When Is Surgery Recommended for Hammertoe?
If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from hammertoe, you may be considering surgery as a treatment option.
Hammertoe surgery isn’t usually the first or only way to treat hammertoe, but it is a highly successful procedure that can correct the deformity and relieve pain when other methods have been ineffective.
Here's when hammertoe surgery is recommended, the different types of surgical procedures, and what the recovery process looks like.
What Is Hammertoe? What Causes It?
Hammertoe develops when there is an imbalance in the tendons and ligaments around the toe joint. As these structures tighten over time, they can cause the toe to bend upward in a claw-like position. This can cause pain and irritation and make walking very uncomfortable as the toe rubs against the shoe.
Hammertoe is most commonly caused by wearing shoes that are too tight, too narrow, or lacking arch support. Other causes include bunions, arthritis, diabetes, or genetics (flat feet or high arches).
Learn more about the causes and symptoms of hammertoe.
When Is Hammertoe Surgery Recommended?
Dr. Elton, a leading foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, will recommend conservative treatment options whenever possible.
Hammertoe develops gradually, so it's important to seek treatment in its early stages. If the toe joint is still flexible, symptoms can often be managed by:
Changing footwear (wider and deeper shoes)
Using orthotics
Splints, pads, or taping
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Steroid injections
Dr. Elton may recommend surgery to bring you much-needed relief in cases where:
Conservative measures are no longer effective
The deformity is severe
Wearing shoes is painful
Your mobility is limited
You have to be on your feet a lot
There are other conditions, such as bunions
What Are the Different Types of Surgery for Hammertoe?
There are a variety of surgical techniques for hammertoe, and they are almost always performed on an outpatient basis. Dr. Elton will recommend the least-invasive procedure based on the severity of the deformity and its underlying issue. These may include:
Tendon Lengthening (For Flexible Hammertoes) - A small incision is made to release the tendon, allowing the toe to extend fully.
Tendon Transfer (For Flexible Hammertoes) - A tendon on the bottom of the toe is rerouted over the bent part of the toe, pulling it down into a straighter position.
Joint Arthroplasty - This is the most common procedure for rigid hammertoes and is often combined with tendon lengthening. The end of one of the bones is removed to make room for the toe to straighten, followed by a pin or plate to stabilize the bones while they heal.
Joint Fusion - This procedure is similar to arthroplasty, except that both ends of the bones in the toe joint are cut, then held with a pin, allowing them to fuse together as they heal.
How Long Does it Take to Recover from Hammertoe Surgery?
Your recovery process and restrictions will vary depending on the type of surgery, but generally, here's what most people can expect.
Week 1 - Using crutches, a walker, or a scooter for the first few days after surgery
Weeks 2 to 6 - Switch to a walking boot and begin bearing weight
Week 6 - Return to regular shoes if the swelling has gone down and it's comfortable to do so
Weeks 8 to 12 - Most people can return to their normal activities within two to three months
Contact Team Elton Today and Get Relief from Hammertoe Pain
If you're suffering from a painful hammertoe or have questions about your surgical options, contact Dr. Elton and his team at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery today.
As the leading foot and ankle specialist in Eagle and Summit counties, Dr. Elton has helped countless patients overcome hammertoe pain and return to their active lifestyles free from discomfort.
With clinics in Edwards, Vail, and Frisco, Team Elton is here to get you back on your feet!
Call (970) 476-7220 for an appointment or submit a consultation request using our online form.