Hammertoe Surgery

One of the most common toe deformities seen by our office is a hammertoe. Most often attributed to wearing ill-fitting, tight footwear or high-heeled shoes that squish the toes into a bent position, a hammertoe can also be influenced by genetic factors, the result of a bunion, or caused by arthritis in the toe joint. 

What a hammertoe looks like

Just as the name implies, a hammertoe resembles a "hammer" with the toe bending at the middle joint into a claw-like deformity. While hammertoes usually affect women, men can develop them as well.

Hammertoes can cause discomfort while walking, and even when you try to move or stretch your toes. You may also develop corns or calluses on the top of the toe and the ball of the foot and have difficulty fitting into your shoes. While in its early stages of development, the involved joint still feels flexible, if left untreated, your hammertoe will become more rigid and less responsive to conservative modes of care.

Treatment options

Treatment for a hammertoe depends upon the severity of the toe deformity, level of toe flexibility, existing medical conditions, and other factors. In the case of mild deformities, or for individuals with complex medical histories, conservative treatment may be recommended. A non-surgical plan may include strategically placed foot padding, wearing shoes with a roomy toe box, custom orthotics, splinting, or taking anti-inflammatory medication as needed to reduce pain and inflammation. However, severe toe deformities and joint rigidity warrant surgery. Also, a combination of surgical procedures may be recommended when other foot deformities accompany a hammertoe.

Corrective hammertoe surgery

The goal of corrective hammertoe surgery is to re-establish normal anatomy while restoring comfort and function. During a surgical procedure, the toe is straightened, and the joint between the involved bones stabilized. While healing, the newly realigned bones fuse, thereby permanently maintaining the toe in a straighter and healthier position. 

As experts in foot anatomy, health, and function, Dr. J. Turner Vosseller uses the most advanced surgical techniques to achieve outstanding results of care. Also, the success rate of hammertoe surgery is quite high, and the risks of complications are low. While hammertoe surgery is often performed as an outpatient procedure, treatment and delivery of care are tailored to address each patient's unique requirements. 

Sometimes hammertoes and a bunion go hand-in-hand. When that's the case, both deformities can get surgically corrected at the same time. 

The best "steps" in care

Whether it's the treatment of hammertoes, or any other issue affecting foot health and function, you can rely on our office for skilled and experienced care. Dr. J. Turner Vosseller maintains an unwavering commitment to excellence and is dedicated to providing patients with the most effective options in care. 

Personalized Care

From an Experienced Orthopaedist