Can Hammertoes Be Corrected Without Surgery?
Hammertoes can often be managed without surgery, especially when treatment begins while the affected toe is still flexible. Nonsurgical care may relieve pain, reduce pressure, and help keep the deformity from worsening. However, it may not permanently straighten a rigid hammertoe.
At New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, we help patients throughout New Jersey understand their options for treating hammertoes and other painful toe conditions.
What Is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe develops when one of the smaller toes bends abnormally at its middle joint. Muscle and tendon imbalances can gradually pull the toe out of position, giving it a curled or hammer-like appearance.
Hammertoes may be flexible at first, meaning you can still straighten the toe manually. Over time, the joint can become stiff or rigid. Shoes that are too tight, foot structure, arthritis, previous injuries, and certain medical conditions can all contribute.
Which Nonsurgical Treatments Can Help?
Treatment depends on the toe’s flexibility, the severity of the deformity, and whether it is causing pain. A podiatrist may recommend:
- Roomier footwear: Shoes with a wide, deep toe box reduce pressure on the bent joint. Both overly tight and poorly fitted shoes can cause problems, so review our blog about how improper shoe fit can affect your feet.
- Padding: Protective pads can reduce rubbing and help prevent painful corns and calluses.
- Stretching and strengthening: Specific exercises may help preserve flexibility and improve muscle balance.
- Custom orthotics: Orthotics cannot straighten a hammertoe, but they may improve foot mechanics and redistribute pressure. Learn more about when podiatrists prescribe custom orthotics.
- Splinting or taping: These methods may help hold a flexible toe in a better position and reduce irritation.
When Might Hammertoe Surgery Be Necessary?
Surgery may be considered when the toe has become rigid, pain interferes with walking or wearing shoes, or conservative treatments no longer provide relief. The procedure used will depend on the severity of the deformity and the structures involved.
Early evaluation provides the greatest opportunity to manage a flexible hammertoe without surgery. If a curled toe is becoming painful, rubbing against your shoes, or limiting your activities, contact New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group.
Our experienced podiatrists help resolve foot issues and develop personalized treatment plans that restore comfort and mobility. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
