Hammertoe Correction

What is hammertoe, and how does it develop?

Hammertoe is a deformity that occurs in the middle joint of a toe. It is most common in the second, third, and fourth toe. People with hammertoe notice a bend in that middle joint, causing the toe to have an abnormally raised or “humped” appearance. 

A similar condition can develop in the joint closest to your toenail. This is called a mallet toe and creates a similar abnormal bump or bend in the affected toe. 

Wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe area is a common cause of hammertoe. These shoes don’t allow your toes to lie flat in the base of the shoe, and they often have to curl or bend in abnormal positions. Traumatic injuries like being stubbed, broken, or jammed can also lead to hammertoe. 

How does hammertoe correction surgery work?

Some people can find relief from hammertoe by simply changing their footwear. Special padding and splinting can also yield improvement. In some cases, however, surgical correction is the only way to truly address hammertoe.

The procedure is done in an outpatient setting, so you won’t need to spend the night. Local anesthesia ensures you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. 

Your specialist can use a number of different techniques to correct hammertoe. One approach is to cut the ends of the bone where hammertoe is present. Next, a pin, rod, or screw is secured to the bone to keep the toe straight. 

A tendon transfer is also an option and works by removing a portion of the tendon beneath the toe to help it lie flat. Joint resection is yet another way to correct hammertoe, and requires removing the end of the bone at the fixed joint and placing temporary pins to straighten the toe. 

When is the right time to consider hammertoe correction surgery?

For some people, the primary concern with hammertoe is aesthetics. When one or more toes are significantly curled or raised above the others, it can negatively affect the appearance of your feet. 

Hammertoe can also be uncomfortable. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it might be time to come in for a consultation:

• Stiffness
• Redness or swelling
• Development of corns or calluses
• Pain while wearing certain shoes

There is no need to accept these symptoms as inevitable when there are procedures that can help. You can book a visit at The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute online or by phone at your earliest convenience.