When Does Hammertoe Require Surgery?

Thanks to advances in podiatry, you don’t have to live with the constant pain of hammertoe. When your case is severe, surgical correction helps patients get the relief they need and restores healthier, pain-free feet.

While conservative treatments often relieve symptoms, in some cases, surgery is the most effective option for hammertoe, a foot deformity that occurs when one or more of the toes becomes bent downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. People who develop hammertoes often find it difficult to fit into shoes and walk comfortably.

At Alpine Foot and Ankle in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Alpine, Wyoming, Dr. Andrew McCall, and his experienced team specialize in diagnosing and treating hammertoes. We offer both nonsurgical and advanced surgical solutions to help patients regain comfort and mobility.

What causes hammertoe?

Hammertoe typically develops when there’s an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that stabilize the toe. Common contributing factors include:

Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
Injury to the toe
Genetic predisposition
Underlying conditions, such as diabetes

Over time, the toe becomes stuck in a bent position, leading to discomfort as well as calluses and corns where the toe rubs against the inside of the shoe.

When is surgery necessary for hammertoe?

Depending on your case, changing footwear, wearing custom orthotics or toe splints, or performing physical therapy exercises may be enough to manage hammertoe. However, when these conservative measures aren’t enough to provide meaningful relief or when the condition progresses, Dr. McCall may recommend corticosteroid injections or even surgery.

Persistent pain or discomfort

If you experience persistent toe discomfort that doesn’t improve with other treatments, surgery might be the best solution. Pain is often a sign that the deformity has progressed to the point where surgery is necessary to restore alignment and function.

Severe toe deformity

When the toe becomes rigid and you can’t straighten it manually, surgery is typically required. Advanced hammertoe can lead to permanent joint stiffness and difficulty walking, making surgical correction the most effective option.

Impact on daily activities

Hammertoe that interferes with everyday activities, such as walking, exercising, or wearing shoes comfortably, is another sign that you probably require surgery. The goal of surgical treatment is to eliminate pain and restore mobility so you can walk comfortably and return to your normal routine.

What to expect from hammertoe surgery

Dr. McCall offers advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures, to treat hammertoe effectively. Surgery is tailored based on the severity of your condition and may involve:

Soft tissue release
Joint resection
Fusion

He performs these procedures with precision and small incisions to minimize downtime and promote a faster recovery. After surgery, patients receive personalized post-operative care, including recommendations for proper footwear, physical therapy, and follow-up visits to monitor your progress.

Comprehensive care for your feet

Living with hammertoe doesn’t have to mean enduring chronic pain or discomfort. Whether you’re seeking conservative treatments or exploring surgical options, you can rely on the team at Alpine Foot and Ankle. Dr. McCall brings over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence in podiatric care.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hammertoe or have questions about your treatment options, contact Alpine Foot and Ankle today to schedule a consultation.