A hammertoe can cause pain, pressure discomfort, and problems with footwear. If non-surgical treatment does not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be an option. The purpose of the surgery is to correct the misalignment of the toe and reduce pain, thereby improving the function of the foot.
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A hammertoe is a deformity of one or more toes in which the toe bends at the joint—and this often causes pain, pressure, and difficulty finding shoes that fit. Below are some of the most common symptoms that lead patients to schedule an appointment at Capio.
If you're unsure whether your symptoms fit the description, you're always welcome to contact us.
One or more toes are bent upward at the proximal joint and downward at the middle or distal joint. The deformity often becomes more pronounced over time, and the toe ends up higher than the other toes.
At first, the toe can often be straightened using the fingers, but over time the joint becomes stiff. The specialist will assess whether the deformity is still movable or has become stiff, as this affects which surgery is recommended.
Tenderness and pain on top of the middle joint of the toe, where the toe bends upward and comes into contact with the top of the shoe. The discomfort is typically worst in closed-toe, low-cut shoes and subsides when the foot is free.
When the toe bends downward, the tip of the toe and the nail are pressed against the ground with every step. This can cause a pressing pain in the tip of the toe when you stand or walk.
Repeated pressure against the shoe can cause thickened skin and corns over the toe joint—and, in some cases, sores that are slow to heal. This is a sign that pressure is concentrated in one spot.
Many people find that they can only wear a very limited number of shoes, and that regular footwear rubs or pinches their toes. This limits their daily life, work, and activities more than one might think.
Diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can cause muscle imbalance and weaken the supporting tissues in the forefoot, thereby increasing the risk of hammertoes. If you have reduced sensation in your feet, it is especially important to have pressure sores and developing ulcers assessed in a timely manner.
Have you tried foot exercises, custom-fitted shoes, and orthotics without sufficient results? If so, surgery can correct the position of the toe and reduce discomfort—about 90% of patients are satisfied with the results.
A hammertoe is a deformity of one or more toes in which the toe bends at the joint, which can cause pain, pressure discomfort, and difficulty finding shoes that fit. The discomfort is often caused by increased pressure on the toe from the shoe or the ground. If the symptoms cannot be alleviated with non-surgical treatment, surgery may be the right solution.
Treatment depends on the severity of the misalignment and your symptoms. Many people may initially benefit from foot exercises, properly fitted shoes, or orthotic insoles. If the pain persists, surgery can correct the position of the toe and reduce discomfort. In most cases, it is necessary to stabilize the toe joint with a metal wire (K-wire) so that the toe heals in the desired position. Most patients experience significant pain relief after surgery, but swelling may persist for several months, and the operated toe will often be slightly shorter than before.
Before the surgery, you will be examined by a specialist who will assess your symptoms and the misalignment of your toe. If your symptoms cannot be relieved with non-surgical treatment, surgery may be the right solution. During the preoperative examination, the surgeon will inform you which surgical procedure is recommended for your specific case.
During the surgery, the misalignment of the toe is corrected to reduce pain and pressure. In most cases, it is necessary to immobilize the toe joint with a thin metal wire (K-wire), which holds the toe in the correct position during healing. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and usually takes about 30 minutes.
Most patients experience significant pain relief after the surgery. However, swelling and tenderness can be expected for several months, and the operated toe will often be slightly shorter and thicker than before. About 90% of patients are satisfied with the results of the surgery.
Can a hammertoe be treated without surgery?
Yes, mild symptoms can often be relieved with roomy or custom-fitted footwear, pressure-relieving insoles, and exercises for the feet and toes. If the pain and pressure-related symptoms persist despite these measures, surgery for hammertoe may be an option.
How is hammertoe surgery performed?
During the surgery, the misalignment of the toe is corrected to reduce pain and pressure-related discomfort. In most cases, the affected toe joint is fused, and the toe is held in the desired position with a thin metal wire called a K-wire. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes, provided no other procedures are being performed at the same time.
Can you walk right after hammertoe surgery?
You will generally be able to walk after the surgery, but for the first few days, you should put only minimal weight on the operated toe and keep your foot elevated as much as possible. You can then gradually increase the amount of weight you put on it, following the instructions you receive. A special heel shoe is usually required for six weeks to relieve pressure on the forefoot during healing.
How long does it take to recover from hammertoe surgery?
The healing period varies from person to person. The stitches are usually removed after about two weeks, while any K-wires are typically removed after about six weeks. Pain, tenderness, and swelling may occur for three to six months after the surgery, although you can gradually resume many of your normal activities.
How long should you be on sick leave after hammertoe surgery?
The length of your sick leave depends, among other things, on your job and the extent of the surgery. You can often return to a sedentary job sooner than to a job that involves a lot of standing, walking, or lifting. Driving is generally not recommended while you are wearing heel braces, and until you have regained full control of your foot and can safely brake suddenly.
What results can you expect after hammertoe surgery?
The purpose of the surgery is to correct the position of the toe and reduce pain and pressure-related discomfort. Up to 90% of patients who undergo the surgery are satisfied with the results. However, the operated toe often becomes slightly shorter and thicker than before, and in some cases, the deformity may recur. Complications such as infection, blood clots, or damage to small nerve branches are rare.
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