At OrthoGeorgia, our experienced foot and ankle doctors provide comprehensive foot and ankle care, including the diagnosis and treatment of hammer toe. Hammer toe is a deformity that causes one or more toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint, often resulting in discomfort, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes. This condition can develop gradually due to muscle imbalance, arthritis, or ill-fitting footwear, and may lead to corns, calluses, and even open sores if left untreated. Over time, worsening hammer toe can limit mobility and impact your overall foot health. When you come to us with symptoms of hammer toe, you will receive personalized foot and ankle care with your unique needs kept in mind every step of the way. We offer a full range of both conservative and surgical treatment options and strive to help each patient get back to doing what they love without pain. Learn more below about hammer toe and how we diagnose and treat this common condition at OrthoGeorgia.
What are the Symptoms of Hammer Toe?
Recognizing the symptoms of hammer toe early is essential to preventing further discomfort and complications. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to seek expert foot and ankle care:
A visible bend or abnormal curve in the middle joint of your toe
Pain or tenderness, especially when wearing shoes
Redness, swelling, or inflammation around the affected toe
Corns or calluses developing on the top or tip of the toe
Stiffness or reduced movement in the toe joint
Difficulty walking or finding comfortable footwear
If left untreated, hammer toe can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain, open sores, and even permanent joint damage. Early intervention with conservative treatment options can often help patients avoid surgery down the road.
How is Hammer Toe Diagnosed?
Diagnosing hammer toe begins with a thorough evaluation by an OrthoGeorgia foot and ankle specialist. During your visit, your doctor will review your medical history and discuss your symptoms. A physical examination will be performed to assess the alignment, flexibility, and tenderness of your toes. To confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition, imaging tests such as X-rays are often recommended. OrthoGeorgia offers advanced diagnostic imaging at all of our clinic locations throughout Central GA, allowing our team to get a clear view of the affected joints and develop a personalized treatment plan. Accurate diagnosis is essential for guiding your hammer toe treatment, whether you require nonsurgical treatment or are considering surgery for hammer toe.
Treatment for Hammer Toe at OrthoGeorgia
At OrthoGeorgia, our specialists offer a full spectrum of treatment options for hammer toe, tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Whether you’re looking to manage your condition conservatively or exploring surgical solutions, our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of foot and ankle care in Central GA. We’ll work closely with you to determine the most effective approach for lasting relief and improved mobility.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Hammer Toe
In most cases, treatment for hammer toe begins with conservative methods. The focus at the start of treatment is to reduce symptoms and prevent progression. Your orthopedic specialist may recommend footwear modifications, such as choosing shoes with a roomy toe box and low heels, to minimize pressure on the affected toes. Custom orthotic inserts or pads can also help realign the toe and provide cushioning, while splinting or taping the toe can help hold it in a straighter position. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises are often prescribed to improve flexibility and muscle balance. If hammer toe pain disrupts your day, your doctor will most likely recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. At OrthoGeorgia, we believe in starting with the least invasive solutions to help you get back on your feet comfortably.
Will I Need Surgery for Hammer Toe?
When nonsurgical treatments for hammer toe no longer provide relief or the deformity becomes severe, surgical intervention may be recommended. At OrthoGeorgia, our experienced orthopedic surgeons offer advanced surgical solutions tailored to each patient. Surgery is typically considered when pain persists despite conservative care, the toe becomes rigid and cannot be straightened, or walking is significantly affected. Surgical procedures may involve releasing or lengthening tendons, removing a small portion of bone, or realigning the joint to restore proper toe function. Our team utilizes minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, promoting faster recovery and reduced discomfort. Our surgery centers in Macon are equipped with the latest technology, allowing us to provide the highest standard of care in a comfortable environment. From your initial consultation to your recovery from surgery, our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
Other Foot and Ankle Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
OrthoGeorgia provides comprehensive foot and ankle care to help our patients overcome a wide range of orthopedic issues. Our dedicated specialists treat everything from sports injuries and fractures to chronic conditions like arthritis and plantar fasciitis. Using advanced diagnostics and the latest treatment techniques, we create personalized care plans to restore mobility and reduce pain. With convenient locations throughout Central Georgia, OrthoGeorgia is committed to helping you get back on your feet and live life to the fullest. Our foot and ankle specialties include:
Macon
