Hammertoe is a condition in the foot that can be extremely painful if not treated. It can cause increasing issues and cause irritation and discomfort while wearing shoes. Your foot doctor, Dr. Barry Finkelstein, at NYNJ Foot and Ankle Associates in Bronx, NY, can help you determine what form of treatment would be best for your hammertoe and when surgery is needed.
What Is Hammertoe?
Hammertoe is a deformity in the foot which causes the toe to be bent upward in the middle. With hammertoe, your toe may rub against the top of your shoe and cause irritation, or the toe may be jammed into the ground.
There are remedies that your foot doctor in Bronx, NY, may recommend before surgery. Some of these include:
- Adding padding to the shoe.
- Changing or stretching out your shoes.
- Wearing a splint.
- Toe exercises to maintain flexibility.
When is Surgery Needed?
If you’ve tried non-surgical treatment options to relieve any pain caused by your hammertoe, it may be time to consider surgery. If your hammertoe feels stiff and painful and you feel like you can’t participate in your daily activities, surgery may be the best option.
Hammertoe surgery is usually fairly quick and you’ll be able to go home that day. Surgery normally takes about an hour. There are two options to help stabilize the area of your hammertoe. One may be to have pins inserted to hold the toe in a straight position. After the pins are removed, scar tissue will be able to form and help the toe heal. Your other option is fusing the joint by using pins and screws. This helps keep the toe straight and will hopefully allow the ends of the bone to heal together instead of using scar tissue.
Contact Your Foot Doctor Today!
If you’re struggling with hammertoe and constant pain, it’s important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Call Dr. Barry Finkelstein, at NYNJ Foot and Ankle Associates in Bronx, NY, at (718) 881-7990 today!