Hammertoe Surgery

Hammertoe results in curved toes that look like hammers. It affects one or more toes and may result in them staying curled for a period of time. Surgery is usually recommended when conservative treatment fails or hammertoe is severe. In addition to causing corns and calluses, hammertoe interferes with daily activities such as walking and wearing shoes.

Hammertoe Surgery: Types

It may be necessary to have surgery if the hammertoe has advanced and is causing problems with daily activities. Depending on the type of hammertoe and the problem, surgery options include:

Tendon transfer
Tendon lengthening
Joint fusion

Stitches may be used to close an incision, and a bandage or dressing will cover the wound. Micropinnings, rods, and screws may be used to connect incisions.

The recovery process after hammertoe surgery

After hammertoe surgery, your podiatrist will provide instructions on how to recover. You may need to do the following after surgery:

Medication. To minimize pain and swelling after surgery, pain medication may be prescribed for the first few days.
Rest. Staying off your feet helps reduce swelling and pain in your foot.
Ice. If you are experiencing pain or swelling, apply ice for ten to twenty minutes at a time to relieve the discomfort.
Keeping your foot dry. Remove stitches from the foot, it usually takes two weeks.
Wearing a surgical shoe. For protection of the toes and to lift the foot off the ground, a surgical shoe may be required. Crutches or a knee scooter may also be necessary.
Following driving restrictions. You may not be allowed to drive a vehicle after surgery on your right foot.

Possible complications

A return of hammertoe is possible after surgery and may require non-surgical treatment. Other complications include:

Pain, swelling, or redness
Stiffening of the toe
Damage to the nerves
Infection
Blood clots
Bones that do not heal properly

When You Should See a Podiatrist

As a result of hammertoe surgery, you may be experiencing foot or toe pain.

You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com. Our offices are in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.

📲 949-588-8833

🏢 24331 El Toro Rd, Suite 370 Laguna Woods CA 92637

🏢Irvine Medical Arts Building 113 Waterworks Way, Suite 250 Irvine, CA 92618

🌐 https://www.ocfootdoctor.com/

The information contained above is intended for general reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professionals before starting any new treatment. Health information on this website MUST NOT be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease without the supervision of your doctor.