Flexible and Rigid Hammertoes: Why Treatment Differs
Two toes can look similarly bent but need different treatment. One may still straighten when examined, while another has become stiff. The flexibility of a hammertoe helps explain which treatments may be useful.
What does flexible mean?
A flexible hammertoe can be straightened during examination. Footwear changes, padding and selected exercises may help symptoms. When an operation is appropriate, a tendon or other soft-tissue procedure may be part of the plan.
The toe is also checked at the joint where it meets the foot. An unstable or displaced joint can affect the position of the toe and may need separate attention.
What changes when a toe is rigid?
A rigid hammertoe does not easily straighten. The surgeon may need to address bone or a joint, sometimes with a fusion to hold a straighter position. The exact plan depends on which joints are affected and the rest of the forefoot.
The size of the incision does not tell the whole story. Bone healing, fixation, circulation, skin condition and associated procedures influence restrictions and recovery.
What should you ask at the consultation?
Ask what is causing the pain, which nonsurgical choices remain and what the proposed procedure would change. Discuss how much toe movement to expect afterward and whether the deformity could recur.
Dr. Miller evaluates painful toe deformities in Houston and Spring. Bring relevant information about previous treatment or surgery so the discussion can focus on your symptoms and goals.
Two toes can look similarly bent but need different treatment. One may still straighten when examined, while another has become stiff. The flexibility of a hammertoe helps explain which treatments may be useful.
What does flexible mean?
A flexible hammertoe can be straightened during examination. Footwear changes, padding and selected exercises may help symptoms. When an operation is appropriate, a tendon or other soft-tissue procedure may be part of the plan.
The toe is also checked at the joint where it meets the foot. An unstable or displaced joint can affect the position of the toe and may need separate attention.
What changes when a toe is rigid?
A rigid hammertoe does not easily straighten. The surgeon may need to address bone or a joint, sometimes with a fusion to hold a straighter position. The exact plan depends on which joints are affected and the rest of the forefoot.
The size of the incision does not tell the whole story. Bone healing, fixation, circulation, skin condition and associated procedures influence restrictions and recovery.
What should you ask at the consultation?
Ask what is causing the pain, which nonsurgical choices remain and what the proposed procedure would change. Discuss how much toe movement to expect afterward and whether the deformity could recur.
Dr. Miller evaluates painful toe deformities in Houston and Spring. Bring relevant information about previous treatment or surgery so the discussion can focus on your symptoms and goals.