Hammer Toe Specialists
Are you experiencing stiff toes that are flexed at the proximal joint? This is a condition called hammer toes and it may be caused by ill-fitting shoes, unequal muscle tension in the foot, or other medical conditions. Hammer toes can be very painful and may rub in shoes, causing further discomfort. There are multiple options for treatment, and it is best to see an experienced professional to ensure the best outcome. Complex foot specialists, Doctors Thomas Haytmanek and Jonathon Backus, can provide diagnosis and treatment for patients in Vail, Aspen, and the surrounding Denver, Colorado communities who have experienced the symptoms of hammer toes. Contact The Steadman Clinic’s Sports Foot and Ankle team today!
What are Hammer Toes?
A fixed contracture of the lesser toes at the proximal joint is known as a hammer toe. These toe deformities usually start off flexible but over time they can become rigid and lose movement. The toes begin rubbing in shoes and the limited movement can become painful. There can be several causes of this conditions including: imbalanced pull from the muscles in the foot (intrinsic and extrinsic muscles), crowding of the toes in shoes, and some medical conditions such as neuropathy or Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease.
What are symptoms of hammer toes?
When the toes are bent in an abnormal position they can become painful. The toes can rub in shoes that may create blisters or corns. Flexion of the toes can pull the fat pad (cushion) over the metatarsal heads distally causing widespread forefoot pain.
How is hammer toe diagnosed?
Our physicians will conduct an extensive clinical examination (evaluating rigidity and angulation of the toe) as well as x-rays. These together will determine the best course of treatment for the toe deformity present.
Do hammer toes require surgery?
Taping or splinting the toes can treat mild cases of toe deformity. This is used to help reduce further deformity and minimize symptoms. Toe exercises to improve strength and flexibility may also be prescribed.
What are the surgical treatment options for hammer toes?
For severe hammer toe deformity, surgery may be needed to correct the condition. Depending on the rigidity of the deformity and angulation of the toes, the appropriate surgical procedure is selected. In some cases it necessary to lengthen or shorten tendons and/or ligaments to help improve mobility and laxity. To prevent recurrence, a fusion may also be needed to connect the bones on each side of the joint. The bones can be fused with a removable wire or with a metallic implant. Most of these surgeries are consider outpatient and following physical therapy, patients are able to resume their normal activities.
What happens after hammer toe surgery?
It is essential that patients follow the post-operative protocol for recovery set forth by our team as it remains a crucial part of the healing process. Depending on the specific procedures performed, patients can typically heel weight bear in a hard sole (postoperative) shoe almost immediately. An assistive device such as crutches are usually needed for the first few days to weeks. Dressing are placed over the forefoot and this will be changed by our team the first postoperative clinic visit.