Hammertoe Treatment in Jackson Hole

Treat Your Hammertoe Issues with Our Expert Specialists

Understanding Hammertoe

Hammertoe treatment may be required to address a toe that has become permanently locked in a bent-downward position. This condition, which is usually caused by arthritic changes or tight footwear, can be painful due to constant rubbing and irritation of the bent toe. At Teton Orthopaedics, hammertoe treatment in Jackson Hole is provided by an experienced and fellowship-trained orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon who emphasizes highly personalized care. With exceptional skills and a compassionate bedside manner, our foot and ankle specialist has earned the trust and respect of both patients and peers in Jackson, Wyoming, and beyond.

Conservative Hammertoe Treatment Options

In most cases, the pain associated with a hammertoe can be alleviated with non-surgical treatment of a muscle imbalance around the affected toe joint. Depending on the level of discomfort a patient is experiencing, the foot and ankle specialist at Teton Orthopaedics may suggest anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, a series of cortisone injections, “buddy taping,” or custom shoe inserts. Our approach to hammertoe treatment in Jackson Hole always begins with the most conservative options possible, and we generally recommend surgery only for severe or debilitating pain that does not respond sufficiently to these treatments.

Surgical Treatment for Hammertoe

When surgical hammertoe treatment is required, the goal is to realign the affected toe into its proper position to relieve pain and improve function. Depending on a patient’s specific needs, our foot and ankle surgeon can perform several advanced procedures, including:

• Tendon transfer – If a hammertoe is flexible, the tendon beneath the toe can be rerouted to a new path along the top of the toe to help pull the joint into a straightened position.
• Joint resection – If a hammertoe is inflexible, part of the affected toe joint can be removed to create the space necessary to straighten the toe.
• Joint fusion – If a hammertoe is inflexible, the affected toe joint can be completely removed and the toe realigned. Pins, screws, or implants may be used to hold the toe in position while the bones heal together.

Preventing Future Hammertoe Problems

Following any type of hammertoe treatment, including surgery, it is essential to take steps to prevent the problem from returning. While some risk factors, such as genetics and arthritis, cannot be controlled, others can. The most important preventive measure is to wear roomy, low-heeled shoes that do not place unnecessary pressure on the toes.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’d like to discuss hammertoe treatment in Jackson Hole with the foot and ankle specialist at Teton Orthopaedics, contact us to schedule an appointment.