Hammertoes that are severely painful or don’t respond to treatment may require surgery. A podiatrist can perform same-day outpatient hammertoe surgery. If you suffer from pain or restricted movement from a hammertoe, call the office to schedule an appointment.
A hammertoe happens when the middle joint of your second, third, or fourth toe bends so that it looks like a hammer. When hammertoes first occur, they’re usually still flexible and easy to treat without surgery. However, hammertoes that remain untreated can become progressively worse.
Hammertoe may result from an injury — such as breaking or stubbing your toe — or from an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in your foot. Other times, wearing shoes that don’t fit properly can cause hammertoe.
Shoes that are too narrow, tight, or confining at the forefoot can push your toes into a bent position that leads to hammertoe. High heels may also add increased pressure to the toes, worsening the condition.
Common hammertoe symptoms include:
It’s important to see a podiatrist as soon as you notice hammertoe symptoms, as this condition is much easier to treat in its early stages.
A podiatrist begins by examining your foot and thoroughly reviewing your medical history. They may move your toes or take an on-site X-ray to determine the extent of your hammertoe.
Then, the podiatrist will discuss the best treatment for your particular hammertoe condition. Hammertoes that are still flexible may improve with nonsurgical treatment, such as:
Hammertoes that become rigid or don’t improve after conservative treatments may require surgery. A podiatrist is an expert foot and ankle surgeon who offers same-day procedures on an outpatient basis, meaning you don’t have to check into a hospital.
Don’t wait until your hammertoe becomes severely painful or inflexible, call Foot and Ankle Center for the Rockies Specialists to schedule an appointment for prompt treatment.
