What to Expect With Hammertoes Surgery

The term hammertoe refers to a toe that is curved at the middle joint due to problems with the tendon or bone. Hammertoes have the potential to cause pain and swelling and usually require surgery.

Types of Surgery

• Surgical procedures to correct hammertoes either involve a small incision to straighten the tendon or a larger incision to remove some of the affected bones. In most cases, your podiatrist will only give you a local anesthetic to make the area numb during the procedure, but a general anesthetic to put you complete to sleep is also possible, according to Premier Podiatry.

Types of Effects

• After hammertoe surgery, it is normal to experience pain and swelling due to the incision. Your doctor is likely to provide you with pain medication to ease your discomfort.

Time Frame

• In most cases, you are able to go home immediately following hammertoe surgery, but you will most likely need crutches for two to four days, according to Premier Podiatry. Most patients are able to wear a wide, comfortable shoe on the affected foot eight weeks after surgery and are able to return to work and drive an automobile after four to eight weeks.

Risks

• Permanent swelling and long lasting pain are risks associated with hammertoe surgery. There also is a chance that your toe will be stiff or floppy once it heals, that it will not sit properly on the floor and that the hammertoe may return later in life, cautions Premier Podiatry.

Considerations

• Once your foot is healed, it is important that you are careful about what type of footwear you choose in order to prevent a return of your hammertoe. Wide shoes with laces or low heels are most beneficial, and you should avoid plastic and vinyl shoes which cause your feet to sweat and may contribute to hammertoes, suggests the Mayo Clinic.