Hammer toe is a condition where one of the middle toes bends upward at the middle joint, causing discomfort and sometimes pain. While lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments can often alleviate symptoms, surgery may be necessary if these methods fail to provide relief. Here’s what you need to know about hammer toe surgery.
1. Who might consider surgery?
Surgery is usually considered when conservative measures like wearing larger shoes, using shoe inserts, or doing toe exercises do not effectively manage the pain and discomfort caused by hammer toe. Individuals with severe hammer toe deformities, accompanied by bunions, corns, or heel spurs, may also be candidates for surgery. In such cases, a single surgical procedure can address multiple foot issues simultaneously.
2. What happens during surgery?
Hammer toe surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day as the surgery. Depending on your specific case and the surgeon's recommendation, you may receive general anesthesia to sleep through the procedure or local anesthesia to numb the foot while remaining awake.
3. Types of surgical procedures
Joint Resection:
- This procedure involves making an incision on the top of the affected toe to access the ligaments and tendons underneath.
- Ligaments and tendons may be cut to help straighten the toe, and sometimes, a small portion of bone is removed to allow the toe to lie flat.
- Metal pins or rods are often used to keep the toe straight during healing, and these are typically removed about a month after surgery.
Fusion:
- Fusion surgery also involves cutting ligaments and tendons to straighten the toe.
- However, the ends of the two bones that make up the affected joint are removed in this procedure.
- Pins, screws, or plates are used to hold the bones in place while they heal or fuse together.
4. Cost considerations
Hammer toe surgery is usually covered by insurance or Medicare if it is deemed medically necessary. This determination is based on factors such as pain levels, impact on balance, and overall foot health. Insurance typically does not cover hammer toe correction for purely cosmetic reasons.
5. Recovery process
Recovery time after hammer toe surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure performed. Post-surgery care would usually involve:
- For the first two weeks after surgery, it’s important to keep the foot elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Specialized shoes or a walking aid like crutches may be provided to assist with mobility and balance during this period.
- Swelling around the toe is common and may persist for several months, although pain usually subsides soon after surgery.
- Any pins, screws, or other hardware used to stabilize the toe during surgery may be removed a few weeks after the procedure, depending on your surgeon’s recommendation.
6. Long-Term Outlook
In most cases, hammer toe surgery successfully alleviates pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to resume normal activities without difficulty. However, there is a slight risk of the condition recurring, which may necessitate additional surgery. Even after surgery, some individuals may experience limited flexibility in the affected toe, but this typically does not affect walking or balance significantly.
To maintain the benefits of surgery, it’s advisable to avoid wearing shoes that squeeze the toes, such as high heels, which can contribute to the development of hammer toe.
The bottom line
While surgery for hammer toe is a significant step, it can provide lasting relief from pain and functional limitations caused by this condition. If you're considering surgery, discuss your options thoroughly with your healthcare provider to understand the potential benefits and risks based on your individual circumstances. By taking proactive steps and following post-operative care instructions, you can maximize your chances of a successful recovery and improved foot health.
