Hammertoe Straightening

What Is Hammertoe?

Hammertoe is a condition in which one or both joints of the small toes become bent over time, creating a claw-like deformity. This structural deformity develops progressively and typically becomes more rigid without intervention, making early treatment important.

Causes

• Imbalance of muscles and tendons in the toe
• Presence of a bunion on the big toe forcing adjacent toes out of alignment
• Inherited foot structure
• Prior trauma to the toe
• Arthritis (various forms)
• Neurological disorders affecting nerve function to muscles and tendons

Symptoms

• Pain and irritation while wearing shoes
• Formation of corns and calluses on the top or tip of the toe
• Inflammation of the affected toes
• In severe cases: open sores

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical (Early Stage)

• Prescription pads in the shoes
• Changing to wider, more accommodating footwear
• Orthotic devices to reduce pressure
• Pain-relief medications
• Therapeutic injections

Surgical

For more rigid or severe deformities, surgical options range from simple to complex:

• Tendon release (small incision to reduce deformity)
• Tendon transfer to realign the toe
• Bone shaving under local anesthesia
• Joint release at the ball of the foot (for severe cases)

Physical therapy following surgery is recommended to reduce swelling and expedite recovery.