What to Expect With Flexible Hammertoe Surgery on the Tendon in Your Toe
Flexible hammertoe is a condition where your toe is bent at a joint, but the podiatrist can still stretch it out. If your hammertoe condition progresses, you could develop a fixed hammertoe. This is when your toe is bent permanently and can't be straightened.
Flexible hammertoe can sometimes be reversed with orthotics and physical therapy. However, it might be necessary to have surgery. Your podiatrist makes the best recommendation for your treatment depending on the severity of your pain and the condition of your toe. Here's a look at what flexible hammertoe surgery might involve.
The Shortened Tendon Is Released
Flexible hammertoe can usually be corrected by releasing or repositioning the tendon in your toe. This surgical approach is different from fixed hammertoe which requires removal and fusion of bone. Your surgeon might cut the tendon to release its pull on your toe. They might also move the tendon from the lower area of your toe to the top. This method utilizes the tendon to pull your toe into the proper position.
Hammertoe is often caused by muscle weakness caused by wearing improper footwear for long periods. The muscle weakness causes your tendon to shorten. As the tendon shortens, your toe gets pulled in the bent position and can become painful.
The goal of the tendon surgery is to release your bent toe to relieve pain and to balance out the forces on your toe so your toe is straight again rather than bent.
Tendon Surgery Is Usually An Outpatient Procedure
You shouldn't need to stay in the hospital after you have flexible hammertoe surgery. However, you'll need a companion to help you home since you might be drowsy from the sedation or anesthesia. Plus, you won't be able to bear weight on your foot right away.
You'll Need A Mobility Aid
Since you won't be able to walk on your foot for a few weeks, you'll want to have your chosen mobility aid ready to use right after your surgery. Your doctor may even send you to a physical therapist before your surgery to learn how to use your device safely. You might use crutches, a walker, a wheelchair, or a knee walker so you can be mobile without having to put any pressure on your foot. You'll probably need to wear a protective boot after your surgery to protect your toe too. It could be several weeks before you can wear normal shoes, drive, and resume your usual activities.
When you have hammertoe once, you're at risk of having it again, especially if you don't change your footwear. Hammertoe can have other causes, but wearing shoes that are too tight around the toes is a common reason. Your podiatrist may recommend you change the type of shoes you wear and learn toe and foot strengthening exercises from a physical therapist so you can prevent the need for another hammertoe surgery.
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