Hammertoes might start off as a mild annoyance—a toe that curls oddly or feels a little stiff. But over time, that discomfort can grow into something more painful, limiting your ability to walk comfortably or wear your favorite shoes. While conservative treatments often bring relief in the early stages, there are times when they simply aren't enough.

At Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists in Brandon, FL, Dr. Brandi Johnson and Dr. Mark Leitner help patients find the right solution for hammertoes, whether that means trying new non-surgical approaches or considering a more lasting fix.

What Exactly Is A Hammertoe?

A hammertoe happens when one of the toe joints becomes stuck in a bent position, most commonly affecting the second, third, or fourth toes. It can be flexible at first—meaning you can still straighten the toe with your fingers—but over time, it may become rigid and harder to move.

Causes often include an imbalance in the toe muscles, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, trauma, or underlying conditions like arthritis. While some people experience only a slight bend, others develop corns, blisters, and significant pain that interferes with daily life.

When Conservative Care Falls Short

In the early stages, treatments like toe pads, shoe inserts, stretching exercises, and wearing wider footwear can help reduce pressure and pain. But these measures don’t reverse the deformity—they just manage the symptoms. When the hammertoe becomes more rigid or painful despite these efforts, it may be time to talk to a specialist about next steps.

Here are a few signs conservative treatment may no longer be enough:

• The toe is permanently bent and no longer flexible
• Pain persists or worsens even with supportive footwear
• Corns or calluses keep returning despite padding
• Walking or standing has become uncomfortable or difficult

Surgical Options For Long-Term Relief

When a hammertoe doesn’t respond to non-surgical care, surgery might offer the best chance at restoring comfort and function. Procedures vary based on the severity and structure of the toe, but common approaches include:

• Tendon Release or Transfer: This helps rebalance the muscles pulling on the toe.
• Joint Resection or Fusion: These options are used when the joint is stiff or misaligned, allowing the toe to straighten and sit more naturally.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques: Some procedures can be performed with smaller incisions, leading to shorter recovery times.

Dr. Johnson and Dr. Leitner will guide you through every step of the process, from imaging and diagnosis to recovery and follow-up care.

Find Relief That Lasts

Living with hammertoes doesn’t have to mean living in pain. If conservative treatments haven’t given you the results you need, it may be time to explore more permanent solutions. At Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists, we’re here to help you take confident steps forward.

Call us today at 813-571-2977 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.