Most patients are first treated conservatively through non-invasive techniques and treatment options. If the problems still persist, more invasive options can be discussed along with possible surgical options.
What is Hammertoe?
Hammertoe is a contracture (bending) deformity of one or both joints of the second, third, fourth or fifth (little) toes. This abnormal bending can put pressure on the toe when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop.
Symptoms:
- Pain or irritation of the affected toe when wearing shoes.
- Corns and calluses (a buildup of skin) on the toe, between two toes or on the ball of the foot. Corns are caused by constant friction against the shoe. They may be soft or hard, depending on their location.
- Inflammation, redness or a burning sensation
- Contracture of the toe
Causes:
- Congenital deformities present at birth
- Genetic inheritance
- Mechanical factors such as activity and/or tight fitting shoes
Hammertoe Surgery
Surgery is an option for treating severe hammertoe in both adults and children. We may perform hammertoe surgery on painful hammertoes once conservative care has failed to resolved the symptoms. Depending on your unique situation and degree of deformity, your surgeon may decide to utilize one or more surgical procedures. Some possibilities are:
- Fusion: This is the most common surgical procedure for hammertoes. Both ends of the bone at the fixed joint are cut. A pin, or K-wire, is temporarily inserted to keep the toe straight; once the ends fuse, the pin is removed. A newer technique involves a rod or screw that is permanently implanted.
- Tendon transfer: This involves rerouting tendons from the bottom of the toe to the top to help it straighten.
- Joint resection: The end of the bone at the fixed joint is removed and pins are placed temporarily to keep the toe straight.
We can correct hammertoes through the use of pins or other internal implants in the toe. Sometimes, for flexible hammertoes, an office procedure called a flexor tenotomy, can be done. This is a minimally invasive technique that requires little to no downtime and has great results. In selecting the procedure or combination of procedures for your particular case, your Top rated Podiatrists for Hammertoe in Tuscany, Calgary will take into consideration the extent of your deformity, the number of toes involved, your age, your activity level and other factors.
When Is Hammertoe Surgery Needed?
In some cases, usually when the hammertoe has become more rigid and painful or when an open sore has developed, surgery is needed. Often, patients with hammertoe have bunions or other foot deformities corrected at the same time. The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed.
As a general rule, we perform Hammertoe surgery or procedures on an out-patient basis in an Alberta Health Services (AHS) approved Surgical Center or in a Hospital. Surgical procedural costs are covered by AHS or the patient may opt for private surgery to avoid a waiting time. A visit to Feldman & Leavitt Foot And Ankle Specialists will CLEARLY define all available patient options.
For more information on Top Rated Podiatrists for Hammertoe in Tuscany, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons
For more information on Top Rated Podiatrists for Hammertoe in Tuscany, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons
