What is Hammer Toe Correction Surgery?
Hammer toe correction surgery is a procedure used to straighten a toe that has become bent at the middle joint, often causing pain, pressure, or difficulty walking. This condition, known as hammer toe, usually affects the second, third, or fourth toe and may be flexible at first but can become stiff over time.
The goal of the surgery is to realign the toe, relieve discomfort, and improve function. Depending on the severity, your orthopedic surgeon may remove part of the bone, realign tendons, or use pins or implants to hold the toe in its corrected position while it heals.
When is Hammer Toe Correction Surgery Necessary?
Surgery isn’t always the first step. Many people find relief with non-surgical treatments like:
- Roomy, supportive shoes
- Toe splints or pads
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy or stretching exercises
However, your doctor may recommend surgery if:
- Pain persists despite trying conservative treatment
- The toe becomes rigid and can’t be moved
- Corns, calluses, or ulcers develop from pressure or rubbing
- You’re unable to comfortably wear shoes or walk
The Hammer Toe Correction Surgery Procedure
The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you’ll go home the same day. The specific procedure depends on how flexible the toe is:
- Flexible hammer toes: Tendons may be released or repositioned to straighten the toe.
- Rigid hammer toes: A small portion of the bone may be removed (called an arthroplasty) or the joint may be fused to hold the toe straight (called an arthrodesis).
- Sometimes, small implants or pins are used temporarily to keep the toe aligned during healing.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs.
Recovery and Aftercare
Healing from hammer toe surgery takes time but is generally very manageable. You may experience stiffness, swelling, and redness after surgery. You’ll likely wear a special post-op shoe and keep weight off the foot for a short period. Here’s a general overview:
- First few days: Keep the foot elevated to reduce swelling. You may need crutches or a walker.
- 1–2 weeks: Sutures may be removed and walking may gradually resume with a protective shoe.
- 4–6 weeks: Stiffness, swelling, and redness should subside. You may return to regular shoes and light activity, depending on your healing.
- 3+ months: Full recovery, including return to sports or more strenuous activities, varies depending on the procedure and your individual progress.
Your orthopedic specialist will give you a customized recovery plan, including home care instructions and physical therapy if needed.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Hammer Toe Correction Surgery?
Good candidates include individuals with moderate to severe hammer toe that no longer responds to non-surgical treatments. People with diabetes or circulation issues should be carefully evaluated due to a higher risk of complications, but surgery may still be an option in many cases.
The Role of OrthoConnecticut
At OrthoConnecticut, our foot and ankle specialists offer advanced evaluation and personalized treatment plans. We’re committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence in your stride—whether through non-surgical solutions or expert corrective procedures.
FAQs
Yes. Flexible hammer toes may be improved with physical therapy, splints, or footwear changes. Rigid hammer toes often require surgical correction to restore toe alignment and relieve pain.
Non-surgical treatments like toe splints, orthotics, and exercises can help reduce symptoms and slow progression, especially in the early stages. However, they won’t permanently reverse the deformity if the joint has become stiff.
Not usually. In fact, walking barefoot can sometimes make symptoms worse, especially on hard surfaces. Supportive shoes are generally recommended to relieve pressure on the toes.
Toe separators can offer temporary relief by improving alignment and reducing friction. They may help with mild or flexible hammer toes, especially when used alongside other treatments.
It varies. Some people benefit from wearing them for 30 minutes to an hour a day, while others may wear them for longer. It’s best to start slowly and follow your provider’s recommendations.
Toe separators generally don’t permanently realign toes, but they may improve comfort and flexibility over time with consistent use. If the toe is rigid, surgery is usually needed for realignment.
Untreated hammer toes can lead to worsening deformity, pain, difficulty walking, corns or ulcers, and even open wounds in people with diabetes. Early treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the need for more invasive procedures later.
