What is a Hammertoe?

A hammertoe is a deformity of the second, third or fourth toes. In this condition, the toe is bent at the middle joint, so that it resembles a hammer. Initially, hammertoes are flexible and can be corrected with simple measures but, if left untreated, they can become fixed and require surgery.

Common Causes:

• Imbalance of the tendons and soft tissue of the affected areas
• Shoes that narrow toward the toe

Symptoms of a Hammertoe may include:

• Corns or calluses middle joint of the toe or on the tip of the toe
• Pain in toes
• Deformity of the second, third or fourth toes

When you arrive for your initial consultation, Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) our foot specialist will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.

When diagnosing a Hammertoe, the OPA specialist will provide:

• A medical, injury, and symptom history review
• A physical examination
• Multiple view x-rays

Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.ed treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.

Common Treatments:

In most cases, Hammertoe is  treated without surgery. Although nonsurgical treatment cannot actually “reverse” a hammertoe, it can help reduce pain and keep the hammertoe from worsening. The following may be included in a customized OPA foot specialist treatment plan:

Orthopedic Shoes

Shoes that have soft, roomy toe boxes. Shoes should be one-half inch longer than your longest toe.

Exercise

Toe exercises that you can do at home to stretch and strengthen the muscles.

Straps or Pads

Use commercially available straps, cushions or non-medicated corn pads to relieve symptoms.

Hammer toe can be corrected by surgery if conservative measures fail. Usually, surgery is done on an outpatient basis with a local anesthetic. The actual procedure will depend on the type and extent of the deformity. After the surgery, there may be some stiffness, swelling and redness and the toe may be slightly longer or shorter than before. You will be able to walk but should not plan any long hikes while the toe heals, and should keep your foot elevated as much as possible.