Hammertoes

Hammertoes occurs when the tendons and ligaments around the toes become contracted and the toes take on a “claw-like” appearance. The problem is aggravated when the toes come in contact with the top of a shoe causing “corns” to form on the tops of the toes. In severe cases, a callus can also form at the end of one or more toes. 

Causes of Hammertoe

  • Shoes that are too small and cause the toe to bend.
  • Callus and Corns
  • Aging and sex (women are more likely to get hammertoe)
  • Injury to the toe
  • Genetics and toe length 

Symptoms of Hammertoe

Some of the most common symptoms are

  • Corns and calluses
  • Pain and inflammation on the affected toe. 
  • Bending of toe

Treatment

  • Wear proper-fitting shoes
  • Take care of corn or callus
  • Foot exercises
  • Surgery

Recovery

After these procedures are performed, it is usually necessary for the patient to wear a post-surgical shoe for one to two weeks. 

BOOK APPOINTMENT
Hammertoe
Pre-op
Pre-op
The pre-op image which shows previously failed hammertoe correction with severe contracture and scar tissue
Intra-operative
Intra-operative
Intra-operative images taken during surgery which show excellent correction of the hammertoe deformity with just 3 small stitches on the top of the foot and k-wire to hold correction in place. K-wires are removed 3-4 weeks after surgery and is not painful.
Intra-operative
Intra-operative
Intra-operative images taken during surgery which show excellent correction of the hammertoe deformity with just 3 small stitches on the top of the foot and k-wire to hold correction in place. K-wires are removed 3-4 weeks after surgery and is not painful.
3 weeks Post-op
3 weeks Post-op
3 weeks s/p hammertoe correction minimal swelling is noted with minimal incision technique. Tape splinting is applied to hold the position of the digits. The patient will start walking in regular shoes after this visit.
3 weeks Post-op
3 weeks Post-op
3 weeks s/p hammertoe correction minimal swelling is noted with minimal incision technique. Tape splinting is applied to hold the position of the digits. The patient will start walking in regular shoes after this visit.