No patient really wants to undergo surgery. However, if you have tried treating your hammertoes with over-the-counter remedies but are still experiencing extreme pain, you may want to speak with a qualified Media podiatrist about a surgical option.

Hammertoe surgery often involves cutting tendons and ligaments to flex the toe. This is commonly done by:

  • Tendon lengthening. The surgeon makes a small incision in the toe and retracts the tendon (or ligament) that is causing the problem. He or she then severs the tendon, making it possible for the patient to flex the toe. Although the toe may be stiff, sore, and possibly shorter or longer after the surgery than it was before, there should not be any loss in mobility.
  • Fusing the joint. In some cases, a small portion of bone is removed at the joint so the toe can be straightened, and then a wire is placed through the toe joint until the joint has time to fuse together, which should prevent the condition from recurring. 
  • Joint alignment. At the close of surgery, the doctor may choose to perform a joint alignment. This will help ensure that the toe does not revert to a hammertoe state. The hammertoe is aligned with another toe that is straight, and then a wire or an implant is inserted into the crooked toe. 

These may sound like complicated procedures, but most are done on an outpatient basis so that patients can return home later the same day.

If you have a foot condition that is causing you pain, you don’t have to keep putting up with it. Our Philadelphia foot specialists can help you find relief. Call Healthmark Foot & Ankle Associates at either of our two convenient locations—610-565-3668 in Media or 610-933-8644 in Phoenixville. Call today to set up a consultation and let us help you get your life back to normal again. 

You can also get a FREE copy of our book The Foot Is Not an Island: Recognizing Vitamin D Deficiency & How to Correct It by clicking on the link on this page.

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