Hammer Toe Surgery
What are Hammer Toes and why do they develop?
A toe is described as ‘Hammered’ when it becomes permanently bent at the first joint. This is due to a muscle imbalance; the toe is normally straight due to the equal forces of the surrounding muscles and tendons, but when the muscles become weak the tendons can pull the toe out of shape.
What does a Hammer Toe look like?
A Hammer Toe is quite distinctive when compared to a toe with natural alignment. Though they can be more or less severely bent:
Treatment for Hammer Toe
Hammer Toes can cause a range of problems, including problems fitting into footwear and corns / callus that result from rubbing against footwear, which can cause painful symptoms. The pain and footwear issues can often be treated without surgery , though surgery can be used to correct the underlying issue.
When is Hammer Toe surgery recommended?
If the Hammer Toe symptoms do not resolve with more conservative measures then your specialist may recommend surgery to permanently resolve the issue.
What are the alternatives to Hammer Toe surgery?
Non-surgical treatment of Hammer Toes typically aims to address the symptoms rather than correct the bent toe. These might include:
Can you straighten Hammer Toes without surgery?
It is possible to reverse the progression of Hammer Toes with conservative measures, such as splints, cushioning and exercises. However, if the toe becomes rigid or fixed in the hammered position, surgery is used to correct the alignment.
Types of Toe Surgery
The Average cost of Hammer Toe surgery in the UK
The price for Toe Surgery can vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
Our team will be able to provide a detailed breakdown of fees following your assessment.
Preparing for Hammer Toe surgery
Your foot specialist will advise on a specific toe procedure for your case. You will receive detailed information on the operation prior to the surgery.
There are several things to prepare beforehand. Some important considerations are:
Hammer Toe surgery before and after
Follow the below link to our gallery to see images of Before and After Bunion Surgery.
What to expect after Hammer Toe surgery
You will normally return home on the same day, following the procedure. You will be given instructions on looking after the surgery site and what to expect while recovering. You will be reviewed at important points in time in the subsequent weeks to make sure everything is as expected.
Hammer Toe surgery recovery tips
One of the most important tips for a fast and problem-free recovery is to follow the PRIE regime:
Recovery time after Hammer Toe surgery
A good rule of thumb is that you will return to normal activity over a period of approximately 8 weeks, though it may take longer for the swelling to fully subside. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information on what to expect from you recovery.