充手机一次用多少度电 Is Hammertoe Surgery Worth It?

Is Hammertoe Surgery Worth It?

Posted December 20, 2024 in Hammertoes

In severe cases, hammertoe surgery is the best option for helping patients regain mobility and improve chronic pain. However, not every patient is ready for surgery despite continued discomfort. This blog discusses which symptoms are severe enough to warrant surgery, what hammertoe surgery can do for patients, as well as hammertoe surgery’s pros and cons.

3 Min Read:

How to Tell If You He Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a condition that occurs when the tendons, ligaments, and muscles that typically keep the toes straight when relaxed become imbalanced. This causes the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe(s) to become curled and resistant to straightening. Because of the appearance of the toes, hammertoe is sometimes called mallet toe or claw toe. When left untreated, this deformity can cause a loss of flexibility and mobility, as well as increased pain.

Some signs of hammertoe include: 

One or more toes bend upward at the toe鈥檚 first joint (the PIP joint) Blisters or calluses form where the toe(s) rub against your shoes Pain at the base of the toe joint What Causes Hammertoe?

Hammertoe is caused by the deterioration of the toe joints or muscles. Common causes include: 

Wearing high heels or pointed shoes which put too much pressure on the toes and cause the muscles to weaken Rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions that deteriorate the toe joints Chronic nerve damage When Is Hammertoe Surgery Necessary/Recommended?

Although most patients prefer to oid surgery at all costs, in some cases, it鈥檚 the best way to treat hammertoe. If you he hammertoe but aren鈥檛 sure if you鈥檙e ready for hammertoe surgery, the following signs may mean it’s time.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is persistent and can become an issue that affects your quality of life. Some people with chronic pain he milder symptoms, yet it鈥檚 an ever-present aspect of their life鈥攖his is still chronic pain. Leing it to progress will only worsen your condition and can even take its toll on your mental and emotional well-being. If your hammertoe is causing daily pain, you may need to consider surgery.

Severe Deformity

Conditions like hammertoe start off mild, with barely noticeable deformity in the shape of the toe(s), but it does progressively worsen. A severe deformity can make wearing certain shoes difficult, if not impossible, and can cause some patients to feel self-conscious about the appearance of their feet.

Reduced Mobility

When hammertoe is left untreated, it will eventually affect mobility. In addition to pain and discomfort, it is difficult to bend the affected toe(s). Eventually, those affected by hammertoe may he difficulty pushing off properly with each step, affecting their gait and balance.

Hammertoe Surgery Results and Benefits

Although conservative methods are generally the first step, in the above severe cases, hammertoe surgery provides the most comprehensive results. Benefits of hammertoe surgery include: 

Post-recovery pain relief Higher rate of success More complete pain relief than non-surgical treatment

After the recovery period, the affected toes will be straighter, with better function and flexibility. With proper rehabilitation to strengthen the muscles and ligaments, patients will regain mobility, with improved pain and less discomfort when walking. 

Pros and Cons of Hammertoe Surgery

Not every patient wants or needs hammertoe surgery, and most podiatrists will begin treatment with conservative methods such as specialized orthotics, physical therapy, or splints. But if non-surgical hammertoe treatments are ineffective, you may need surgery. The pros and cons of hammertoe surgery are as follows.

Pros of hammertoe surgery

Up to 90% success rate depending on the type of surgery and severity of concerns More complete pain relief Reduced risk of hammertoe returning Long-lasting results

Cons of hammertoe surgery

Normal surgical risks such as bleeding and infection Use of anesthesia Dealing with recovery Small chance of hammertoe recurrence Want to Learn More About Hammertoe Surgery in NYC?

The best way to determine if hammertoe surgery is ideal for you is to schedule a consultation with our experienced NYC podiatrist, Dr. Ethan Ciment. Call Chelsea Foot & Ankle today at (646) 929-4149 or fill out our contact form to get started.