If you’ve been struggling with hammertoe pain, you’re definitely not alone. Hammertoes are one of the most common foot problems seen at Stride Forward Podiatry in Boca Raton. They can make walking, wearing shoes, or even standing for long periods uncomfortable. The good news? Hammertoe surgery can correct the deformity, relieve pain, and help you move freely again.
In this guide, Dr. Martha Holzworth, double board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, explains everything you need to know about hammertoe, what causes it, when surgery is needed, what recovery looks like, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What Is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a toe that bends downward at its middle joint, creating a hammer-like shape. It usually affects the second or third toe, though any toe can be involved. In the beginning, you might be able to move the toe, but over time it can become stiff and painful.
There are two main types:
-
- Flexible hammertoe: The toe can still be straightened with gentle movement.
-
- Rigid hammertoe: The joint becomes stiff, and the toe stays bent permanently.
When left untreated, hammertoes can rub against shoes, forming painful corns and calluses. They may also affect neighboring toes, changing the way you walk and causing even more discomfort.
What Causes Hammertoe?
Hammertoe develops when there’s an imbalance between the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that normally keep your toe straight. Over time, this imbalance pulls the toe into a bent position.
Common causes include:
-
- Wearing tight or narrow shoes: High heels and pointy-toed shoes crowd the toes.
-
- Genetics: Some people inherit foot structures that make hammertoes more likely.
-
- Bunions: The big toe can push against the second toe, causing it to bend.
-
- Injury: A stubbed or broken toe can sometimes lead to hammertoe deformity.
-
- Arthritis or nerve issues: These can affect muscle control and joint alignment.
If you’ve noticed your toe curling or rubbing inside your shoe, it’s best to get it checked early — mild cases can often be managed without surgery.
How Is Hammertoe Treated?
Treatment depends on how severe the deformity is. Dr. Holzworth always begins with conservative, non-surgical options when possible.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For mild to moderate hammertoes:
-
- Wear better shoes: Choose ones with a wide toe box and low heels.
-
- Use orthotics or pads: Custom inserts can relieve pressure and reduce pain.
-
- Toe exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises help balance the toe muscles.
-
- Anti-inflammatory medication: Can reduce pain and swelling.
-
- Toe splints or straps: Help hold the toe in a straighter position.
These steps can make a big difference, especially if your toe is still flexible.
When Surgery Is Needed
If your hammertoe is rigid, painful, or interfering with your daily activities, surgery may be the best solution. Surgery straightens the toe, relieves pain, and prevents the problem from getting worse.
Types of Hammertoe Surgery
Not every hammertoe surgery is the same — Dr. Holzworth selects the procedure based on your specific condition and foot structure.
1. Tendon Transfer
Ideal for flexible hammertoes. The surgeon repositions the tendons so they pull the toe straight instead of bent.
Goal: Restore balance to the toe joint.
2. Joint Resection
A small piece of bone is removed from the affected joint, allowing the toe to straighten. Pins or soft wires may be used temporarily to hold the toe in place during healing.
Goal: Relieve stiffness and pain.
3. Fusion (Arthrodesis)
Used for severe or rigid hammertoes. The ends of the joint bones are fused together, forming one solid bone.
Goal: Provide long-term stability and prevent the deformity from returning.
At Stride Forward Podiatry, Dr. Holzworth often performs minimally invasive hammertoe repair — using smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and faster recovery times.
Benefits of Hammertoe Surgery
The main reason patients choose hammertoe surgery is simple — lasting relief. But there are several benefits:
-
- Pain reduction: No more constant rubbing or pressure from shoes.
-
- Better mobility: You’ll be able to walk, exercise, and wear shoes comfortably again.
-
- Improved appearance: Straightened toes look more natural and make shoe-wearing easier.
-
- Increased confidence: Many patients feel more comfortable showing their feet again.
Most importantly, the procedure helps restore your quality of life — something Dr. Holzworth is deeply passionate about.
Preparing for Hammertoe Surgery
A successful surgery starts with good preparation. Here’s what to expect before your procedure:
-
- Consultation and X-rays: Dr. Holzworth will assess the deformity and plan the best approach.
-
- Medication review: Certain medications, like blood thinners, may need to be paused.
-
- Pre-surgery instructions: You’ll get clear guidance on fasting, footwear, and transportation.
On the day of surgery, wear comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.
The Hammertoe Surgery Procedure
Most surgeries are performed under local or regional anesthesia, meaning your foot is numb but you remain comfortable. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used.
During the procedure:
-
- An incision is made over the affected toe.
-
- The tendon or bone is adjusted or removed depending on the technique.
-
- The toe is straightened and secured with a pin or small screw if necessary.
-
- The incision is closed with sutures, and the toe is bandaged.
The entire procedure usually takes under two hours and is performed on an outpatient basis — meaning you go home the same day.
Recovery After Hammertoe Surgery
Recovery varies by person, but here’s a general idea:
-
- First 2 weeks: Keep your foot elevated and use ice to control swelling.
-
- Walking: You may need crutches or a special surgical shoe to protect the foot.
-
- Sutures removed: Around 10–14 days after surgery.
-
- Pins or screws removed: Within 4–6 weeks, if used.
-
- Physical therapy: Gentle exercises help restore flexibility and strength.
Most patients return to regular shoes and daily activities within 6–8 weeks. Complete healing can take up to 3 months, depending on your procedure and overall health.
Dr. Holzworth provides detailed post-operative instructions and closely monitors your progress to ensure a smooth recovery.
Possible Risks and Complications
While hammertoe surgery is generally safe and successful, every surgery carries some risks. These can include:
-
- Infection at the incision site
-
- Numbness or tingling from nerve irritation
-
- Delayed bone healing
-
- Toe stiffness or recurrence of the deformity
Dr. Holzworth takes every precaution to minimize these risks and ensures patients are informed and supported through every stage of recovery.
Hammertoes- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What causes hammertoe?
Hammertoe is usually caused by an imbalance in toe muscles and tendons, often due to tight shoes, bunions, or genetics. Over time, this imbalance forces the toe into a bent position.
Is hammertoe painful?
Yes, it can be. Pain may occur when wearing shoes or walking. Over time, corns and calluses can make it even more uncomfortable.
Can hammertoe be corrected without surgery?
Yes — if diagnosed early. Non-surgical treatments like better footwear, orthotics, and toe exercises can help. However, once the toe becomes rigid, surgery is often needed.
What is the best hammertoe treatment?
The best treatment depends on your case. For flexible hammertoes, splints or orthotics may work. For severe deformities, hammertoe repair surgery provides lasting relief.
How long does hammertoe surgery recovery take?
Most people resume normal activities in about 6–8 weeks. Full recovery, including bone healing, may take up to 3 months.
Is hammertoe genetic?
Genetics can play a role. If you inherit flat feet or other structural foot issues, you may be more likely to develop hammertoes.
How common is hammertoe?
Hammertoes are very common — especially among adults who wear tight or high-heeled shoes regularly.
What is hammertoe deformity?
It’s a bending deformity of the toe’s middle joint, making it look like a small hammer. The condition can be flexible or rigid, depending on severity.
