Hammertoe Surgery: Correcting Toe Deformities for Pain-Free Mobility

Hammertoe Surgery: Correcting Toe Deformities for Improved Comfort and Function

Hammertoe Surgery is a highly effective solution for patients suffering from painful and rigid toe deformities. Hammertoes occur when one or more of the small toes become abnormally bent at the middle joint, leading to discomfort, difficulty walking, and potential corns or calluses from friction. Dr. De Los Santos specializes in advanced hammertoe correction procedures that not only relieve pain but also restore the natural alignment and function of the affected toes.

What is Hammertoe Surgery?

Hammertoe surgery is designed to correct deformities in the lesser toes (usually the second, third, or fourth toes) that cause the toe to bend downward at the middle joint. This deformity can occur due to a muscle imbalance, arthritis, trauma, or ill-fitting footwear, and if left untreated, the toe may become permanently rigid and painful. The goal of surgery is to straighten the toe, relieve pain, and improve both foot function and appearance.

Key Benefits of Hammertoe Surgery

Pain Relief

Hammertoe surgery addresses the underlying cause of the pain by realigning the toe joint and reducing friction between the toes and footwear.

Restored Toe Function

By straightening the toe, the surgery helps restore normal function, making it easier to walk and wear shoes comfortably.

Improved Foot Appearance

The correction of the deformity results in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, reducing the embarrassment some patients feel due to their condition.

Permanent Solution

For patients with rigid hammertoes, fusion surgery offers a permanent solution to prevent the toe from becoming deformed again in the future.

Who is a Candidate for Hammertoe Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for hammertoe surgery if:

You experience persistent pain in your toes or difficulty walking due to hammertoes.
Conservative treatments like changing footwear, orthotics, or padding have failed to alleviate your symptoms.
Your hammertoe is rigid, and non-surgical treatments are no longer effective.
You have developed corns, calluses, or sores as a result of the toe deformity.

Dr. De Los Santos will perform a thorough evaluation of your condition to determine the best surgical approach for your specific case.

The Hammertoe Surgery Process: What to Expect

01. Consultation

During your initial consultation, Dr. De Los Santos will examine your foot, review your medical history, and discuss your symptoms. He may order X-rays to assess the extent of the deformity and plan the appropriate procedure.

02. Surgical Procedure

Depending on the type of hammertoe surgery recommended, Dr. De Los Santos will use precise surgical techniques to correct the toe deformity. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day.

03. Post-Operative Care

After surgery, you will be provided with detailed instructions on how to care for your foot, including how to manage swelling and keep weight off the foot as it heals. A special shoe or boot may be required to protect the toe during recovery.

04. Recovery

The recovery period varies depending on the type of procedure performed, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks. Physical therapy may be recommended to improve strength and mobility in the toe.

Why Choose Dr. De Los Santos for Your Hammertoe Surgery?

Dr. De Los Santos is a recognized leader in foot and ankle surgery, known for his expertise in treating toe deformities like hammertoes with precision and care. His patient-centered approach ensures that every surgery is tailored to your specific condition and recovery goals.

Expertise in Minimally Invasive Techniques

Dr. De Los Santos often utilizes minimally invasive methods to reduce scarring, shorten recovery times, and minimize post-operative pain.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Every patient’s foot condition is unique, and Dr. De Los Santos ensures that your treatment plan is customized to deliver the best possible outcome.

Comprehensive Post-Operative Care

Our clinic provides ongoing support throughout your recovery, helping you achieve a smooth, successful healing process.

What is a bunion?

No two bunions are the same.

A bunion, or hallux abductovalgus, is a condition that results in a bony prominence on the inside of the foot, at the big toe joint. Many people think bunions are an overgrowth of bone. But a bunion is actually the dislocation of the big toe joint as it bulges out from beneath the skin. Bunions result when the bones of the feet misalign, causing the big toe to deviate toward the second toe. They sometimes need to be corrected by surgery.

Mild-Moderate

Bone protruding, big toe leaning inward.

Large

Big toe significantly impacts the second toe.

Severe

Toes may be crossed over one another.

The best surgeon to perform your bunion surgery is the creator of the Bunionplasty® procedure.

Known as the Bunion King®, Dr. Blitz is a leading authority and innovator in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. He has revolutionized the treatment of bunions through his minimally invasive Bunionplasty® 360 Bunion Repair™ procedure, and is now bringing his advancements to surgeons and patients everywhere as Founder and CEO of Voom™Medical Devices, Inc. Dr. Blitz divides his time between his NYC office on Fifth Avenue and his outpatient surgical center in the prestigious Golden Triangle area of Beverly Hills. His patients come from around the globe, often flying directly to Dr. Blitz for the expert care that gets them looking, moving, and feeling like the best version of themselves.

Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Toes

If you’re struggling with painful hammertoes, Dr. De Los Santos can help you find lasting relief and restore the natural function of your toes. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a more comfortable, active life.

Published in leading medical journals.

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