HAMMERTOE
Deformity of Lesser Toes
What is a Hammertoe
A Hammertoe is a common deformity we see in our office. Patient commonly presents with a toe that is contracted and rubbing on shoe gear. A hammertoe is a contracture of a toe joint.
Shoe gear often is the big rate limiting step for why someone comes to our office. If someone is having difficulty fitting into their shoe, they often think that means they need surgery. There are many alternatives to surgery and we reserve the need for surgery as a last resort.
Dr. McGowan Discusses Hammertoe Surgery
How do we treat Hammertoes?
Treating a hammertoe really depends on how much pain you have. If you have no pain ....you should not have surgery. If you have pain but can adjust your shoes and have no pain, then you do not need surgery. Surgery is really only indicated if you have pain that is not getting better with wider shoes and what we call palliative care. Wearing toe spacers and toe covers and still having pain may mean it is time for you to consider surgery.
Some conservative options:(these are links to PediFix our affiliate that we earn a small commission if you purchase through this link. We doe this because this brand is been trusted by us since we opened our Clermont Podiatry Office in 2002)
- Budin Splint
- Crest Pad
- Gel toe covers
- Metatarsal Pads(if you click on this link note there is a 1/8 and 1/4 thickness it defaults to 1/8. We recommend 1/4 inch thickness)
We love the Oofos for Hammertoes