If you’re dealing with toe pain, swelling, or a toe that won’t straighten, you might be struggling with a hammer toe. This common condition can make walking uncomfortable and wearing shoes difficult. The good news? Relief is possible. In Columbus, GA, expert podiatrists and foot specialists offer advanced solutions. These include hammer toe surgery to help restore comfort and mobility.
Whether you’re just starting to notice symptoms or have tried splints and other treatments without success, now may be the right time to explore your options. Let’s take a closer look at what causes hammer toe—and how hammer toe correction surgery could help you get back on your feet, pain-free.
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What Is a Hammer Toe?
A hammer toe is a foot deformity that causes one of the smaller toes—often the second, third, or fourth—to bend downward at the middle joint. Instead of lying flat, the toe appears curled or claw-like. This abnormal position can cause irritation, rubbing, and pain, especially when wearing tight shoes.
Common causes of hammer toe include:
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Poorly fitting shoes or high heels
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Muscle or tendon imbalances in the foot
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Past foot injuries or trauma
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Heredity or underlying conditions like arthritis
When caught early, hammer toe may still be flexible and easier to manage. However, if left untreated, it can become stiff and more painful over time. That’s why it’s important to see a hammer toe specialist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early care can help relieve discomfort and prevent further progression of the deformity.
Non-Surgical Hammer Toe Treatments
When non-surgical treatments stop working, hammer toe surgery may offer the best relief. A hammer toe specialist can correct the deformity, reduce pressure, and restore proper toe alignment through a surgical procedure.
Common non-surgical treatments include:
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Hammer toe splints – Help straighten the toe and keep it in a more natural position
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Hammer toe straighteners – Gently stretch and support the affected toe to reduce discomfort
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Custom orthotics – Provide better foot alignment and reduce pressure on the toes
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Toe exercises – Strengthen and stretch the muscles that control toe movement
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Footwear changes – Supportive, roomy shoes can prevent rubbing and irritation
While these methods can offer relief, they may not fully correct the deformity if the toe becomes rigid or painful. If non-surgical methods aren’t enough, your hammer toe specialist may discuss surgical correction as the next step.
What Is Hammer Toe Surgery?
When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, hammer toe surgery may be the most effective solution—especially for toes that have become stiff or painful. A hammer toe specialist can perform a surgical procedure to correct the deformity, relieve pressure, and restore the toe’s natural alignment.
There are several types of hammer toe correction surgery, depending on the severity and flexibility of the toe:
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Tendon release or transfer – For flexible hammer toes, this procedure adjusts or repositions the tendons to help the toe lay flat.
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Joint resection (arthroplasty) – Removes part of the bone at the joint to allow the toe to straighten.
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Fusion (arthrodesis) – Joins two bones together to permanently straighten the toe, often using a small pin or implant.
Hammer toe surgery is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day. Your hammer toe specialist in Columbus, GA will recommend the best surgical approach based on your condition, activity level, and long-term goals.
Why See a Hammer Toe Specialist in Columbus, GA?
When it comes to foot deformities like hammer toe, experience matters. A hammer toe specialist in Columbus, GA has the training and expertise to properly diagnose the condition, evaluate its severity, and recommend the most effective treatment—whether non-surgical or surgical.
Here’s why seeing a local specialist makes a difference:
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Personalized care: Your specialist will assess your unique foot structure, lifestyle, and symptoms to create a treatment plan that works for you.
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Access to advanced procedures: Columbus-area specialists offer cutting-edge surgical techniques, including minimally invasive options for faster recovery.
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Ongoing support: From your initial consultation through post-surgery recovery, your hammer toe specialist will guide you every step of the way.
Don’t let a painful or bent toe limit your mobility. Seeing a qualified hammer toe correction specialist can help you get the relief you need—and get back to doing the things you love.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re dealing with pain, irritation, or trouble moving your toe, it may be time to take action. A trusted hammer toe specialist in Columbus, GA can help you review your treatment options and decide if hammer toe surgery is the right choice.
Early evaluation can prevent the condition from progressing and may even help you avoid surgery altogether. Whether you’ve tried splints and straighteners without success or you’re just beginning to notice symptoms, expert care is available close to home.
