Do I Need Surgery for My Hammertoe?

If you’re dealing with hammertoe, you may wonder whether surgery is your only option. Hammertoe occurs when your toe joint becomes abnormally bent due to muscle and tendon imbalances.

While surgery can be effective, it’s not always necessary, especially if you address the condition early. That being said, hammertoe surgery is the most common forefoot surgery. 

So, how do you know if you need it or not? Our board-certified team at Manhattan Podiatry Associates in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, New York City, can assess the severity of your hammertoe.

In the meantime, read on to learn when surgery is needed and what nonsurgical options you can try first.

When can hammertoe be treated without surgery?

If your hammertoe is still flexible (meaning you can straighten it with your hands), nonsurgical treatments may help slow progression and relieve discomfort. You might consider:

Wearing roomy shoes

Avoid tight or pointed shoes that squeeze your toes. Instead, try footwear with a wide toe box and good arch support. 

While they may look nice, it’s best to skip high heels altogether if you have hammertoe.

Using special toe wraps and separators 

These devices help realign your toes and reduce pressure on painful areas. There are many different kinds of over-the-counter options, including Velcro toe wraps, gel toe separators, toe separator socks, and pads.

Wearing custom orthotics

Over-the-counter pads and separators aren’t your only option. Custom orthotics — special shoe inserts that can help correct foot mechanics and reduce strain on your affected toes — can also help you manage hammertoe.

At Manhattan Podiatry Associates, our team creates one-of-a-kind orthotics based on impressions of your feet. You get exactly the right support where your feet need it most. 

Stretching daily

Simple toe stretches and exercises, like picking up small objects with your toes, can improve flexibility and prevent further tightening.

Utilizing pain management options

Ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and cushioning pads can help alleviate soreness and irritation. If you develop pain from calluses rubbing on your shoes, you might consider cushions as well as periodic callus shaving. 

When is surgery the right option for hammertoe?

If your hammertoe is rigid and stuck in a bent position, nonsurgical treatments may no longer be effective. Surgery might be recommended if you experience:

• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Open sores or ulcers due to toe friction
• Difficulty walking, even with supportive footwear
• Persistent inflammation that doesn’t improve with treatment

As with any surgery, you should be cleared for surgery and prepared to set aside some time for your recovery.

If you’re concerned that your hammertoe symptoms are worsening, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team can evaluate your current treatment plan, review your symptoms and diagnostic imaging, and recommend the right course of action for you.

What happens during hammertoe surgery?

Hammertoe surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day. The specific technique depends on the severity of your condition but may include:

Tendon transfer

For mild cases, our team may adjust your tendons to allow your toe to straighten naturally.

Joint resection

During this procedure, your Manhattan Podiatry Associates surgeon removes part of your affected joint so your toe can be straightened and realigned. This procedure is typically used for rigid hammertoe that no longer responds to nonsurgical treatment.

If needed, small metal pins or rods hold your toe in place as it heals and are usually removed after about a month.

Physical therapy and simple foot exercises help restore alignment and mobility after your surgery.

Toe fusion

In more severe cases, your toe joint may be fused to keep it straight permanently. 

Do you need surgery?

Not everyone with hammertoe needs surgery. If your toe is still flexible, nonsurgical treatments may help keep it from getting worse. However, if pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking affects your quality of life, it may be time to discuss surgical options.

Remember: The sooner you address your hammertoe, the better your chances of avoiding long-term complications. Call our location of your choice or click to schedule a consultation with our team today.