A hammertoe may seem like a small issue, but it can cause pain, limit movement, and make walking uncomfortable. It happens when one of the small toes bends downward at the middle joint, often due to muscle imbalance, tight shoes, or injury. While some people manage the condition with non-surgical care, others may need surgery to correct it.
This article walks through the patient journey what to expect before, during, and after hammertoe surgery, with a focus on how surgical fixation plays a key role in helping the toe heal in the right position.
From Diagnosis to Surgery Decision
When a person visits a doctor with toe pain or stiffness, the first step is a simple physical exam. In many cases, the toe appears clearly bent and may not straighten when pressure is applied. X-rays may also be used to see how the bones are aligned.
