Hammertoe
Hammertoe is deformity in the foot that occurs at the middle joint of the second, third, or fourth toe causing the toe to have an upward bend at the joint (making it look like a hammer).
Initially, hammertoes may be flexible and open with easy means, but they can turn more rigid and fixed if given enough time.
Dr. Lana Schikman · Podiatrist · Foot Doctor · Surgeon located at 11960 Metropolitan Ave, Kew Gardens, NY, 11415 welcomes all new patients for Hammertoe.
Accepting all major health insurances. To make an appointment, please give us a phone call or submit your contact information and preferred day & time to come in!
Causes Of Hammertoe
- Muscle imbalance of the toes
- Genetic predisposition
- Arthritis
- Neuromuscular diseases
Symptoms Of Hammertoe
- Bent toes
- Pain and discomfort
- Corns and calluses
- Inflammation, redness, or a burning sensation.
- Restricted toe movement
When Is Surgery Needed?
Surgical treatment is considered in the cases where the hammertoe causes quite unbearable pain, mainly limits the daily activity, and the therapeutics had not changed the state. Additional treatments may include wearing wider, more comfortable shoes, orthotic devices, exercises, and some medications to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Some other times, if these measures do not work, and the toe becomes rigid, with constant pain that interferes with the faculty of the foot, this means surgery would be required. What kind of surgery would depend on the degree of the hammertoe:
More pliable hammertoes may be successfully treated with soft-tissue procedures, including release or lengthening of the tendons and ligaments.
Fixed hammertoe requires procedures on the bone, including resection of a small part of the bone, realignment of the toe, or fusions of the joints in order to straighten the toes.
The goal of hammertoe surgery is to relieve pain, correct the deformity, and improve the function of the toe and foot. Consulting hammertoe specialist Dr. Lana Schikman in Queens, NY. will do wonders for you. We discuss various treatments available for the condition, and then arrive at an approach that is tailored to your particular case.
