Hammertoe Treatment in Houston, TX
A hammertoe is a deformity that causes one or more of the smaller toes to bend downward at the middle joint, creating a claw-like or hammer-like shape. At Foot Specialists of Memorial, our podiatrists treat hammertoes at every stage, from flexible toes that respond to padding and footwear changes to rigid deformities that need surgical correction.
request an appointmentWhat Causes Hammertoes?
Hammertoes develop when the muscles and tendons that normally hold a toe straight become imbalanced. Over time, that imbalance pulls the toe into a bent position at the middle joint. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Shoes that are too narrow, too short, or have high heels that push the toes forward
- Inherited foot structure, including high arches or flat feet
- Bunions, which can crowd the second toe and force it to buckle
- Arthritis, past toe injuries, and nerve or muscle conditions
- A second toe that is longer than the big toe
Signs and Symptoms of a Hammertoe
In the early stages, a hammertoe is often flexible, meaning you can still straighten the toe by hand. As the condition progresses, the joint can become rigid and stuck in a bent position. Patients frequently notice pain at the top of the bent joint when wearing shoes, corns or calluses where the toe rubs against footwear, redness and swelling, and pain in the ball of the foot. Hammertoes can also contribute to nerve irritation similar to Morton’s neuroma.
Diagnosing Hammertoes
Our podiatrists diagnose hammertoes with a thorough examination of your toes, footwear, and gait. We assess whether the toe is flexible or rigid and may take digital X-rays to evaluate joint alignment and rule out arthritis or other underlying problems. Understanding the cause helps us choose the most effective treatment.
Non-Surgical Hammertoe Treatment
Flexible hammertoes often improve or stop progressing with conservative care. Your treatment plan may include roomier shoes with a deep toe box, protective pads and cushions to relieve pressure on corns, toe splints or straps, stretching and strengthening exercises, and custom orthotics that correct the muscle and tendon imbalance driving the deformity. Corns and calluses can be safely trimmed in the office to relieve pain right away.
Hammertoe Surgery
When a hammertoe becomes rigid or continues to cause pain despite conservative care, surgery may be the best option. Our surgically trained podiatrists perform procedures that release tight tendons, remove a small portion of bone, or straighten and stabilize the joint. If a bunion is contributing to the problem, it may be corrected at the same time, sometimes with Lapiplasty. Explore our full list of conditions treated and podiatry services to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hammertoe Treatment
What is a hammertoe?
A hammertoe is a deformity in which a smaller toe bends downward at the middle joint because of an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that keep it straight.
Can hammertoes go away on their own?
No. Hammertoes do not correct themselves and usually worsen over time without treatment. Early care can slow or stop progression.
Are hammertoes caused by shoes?
Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes are a major contributor, but foot structure, bunions, arthritis, and injuries also play a role.
How are hammertoes treated without surgery?
Conservative treatment includes wider shoes, padding, toe splints, stretching, custom orthotics, and in-office care for painful corns and calluses.
When is hammertoe surgery needed?
Surgery is recommended when a toe becomes rigid or when pain continues despite conservative treatment and interferes with walking or wearing shoes.
What is recovery like after hammertoe surgery?
Most patients wear a post-operative shoe for several weeks and gradually return to regular footwear. Your podiatrist will provide a recovery timeline based on the procedure performed.
Can bunions and hammertoes be treated together?
Yes. Because bunions often contribute to hammertoes, both problems can frequently be corrected during the same surgery.
Get Relief with Hammertoe Treatment in Houston
Our podiatrists are ready to help you move comfortably again. Call our Gessner office at (713) 464-3775 or our Greenhouse office at (281) 371-3338, or request an appointment online.