Hammertoes are an uncomfortable toe deformity that can become a major hindrance to many people’s daily lives. Occurring when a toe joint curls upwards or downwards and sometimes featuring a corn or callus on the top of the foot, hammertoes are not only uncomfortable, but they are unsightly.
Although hammertoe deformities are less than desirable for many patients, they are fairly common. Hammertoes have many causes, such as:
Similar to other foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs, hammertoes frequently occur as a result of wearing improper or poorly fitting footwear. Uncomfortable shoes like high heels and shoes that are too small can put pressure on your toes in all the wrong places, causing complications like hammertoes.
Hammertoes can develop as a result of a previous foot injury. If you have ever experienced an injury that bent, cracked, or otherwise altered your toes, there is a chance you could experience a hammertoe in the future. You should always consult your doctor after experiencing even a minor foot injury to ensure that your joints are not damaged in a way that could lead to deformities down the line.
The natural shape of your feet can lead to complications and deformities such as hammertoes. If you have naturally flat feet, your body might put greater strain on your toes in an attempt to balance out your stance. This can lead to hammertoes. Overly arched feet could compensate by doing the same, resulting in a similar outcome.
If you have naturally flat or overly arched feet, wearing gel inserts or cushions to relieve extra pressure and balance out your stance naturally can not only minimize discomfort and help you walk better, but can greatly decrease your chances for experiencing foot deformities.
Although hammertoes can be extremely unsightly and uncomfortable, fast treatment and a painless recovery is possible for those who develop the condition. Minimally invasive surgery is a safe and effective treatment for hammertoes and can allow patients to get back to their lives pain free in no time. Isolated hammertoe correction typically takes about 5–10 minutes per toe. Patients walk normally right away and come out of the surgical shoe in about 1 week, sometimes 2, depending on the severity of the deformity and how they heal. Running, jumping, and forceful toe bending resume at about 6–8 weeks. You can drive after surgery only if you have not taken Ativan, narcotic pain medication, or anything else that impairs driving. Return to work depends mostly on your job. Desk-job patients may return after a long weekend or about a week if they can elevate the foot and limit walking. Jobs requiring prolonged standing or walking often need at least 8 weeks. Modified duty, shorter shifts, and more sitting can change the plan. The surgical team will give individual guidance.
To learn more about minimally invasive hammertoe surgery, contact Northwest Surgery Center today. Our team of experts will have you back on your feet in no time, free from hammertoes for good.
Medically reviewed by Jordan Sullivan, DPM · Updated October 28, 2026
Medically reviewed by Jordan Sullivan, DPM · Updated October 27, 2026
Medically reviewed by Jordan Sullivan, DPM · Updated October 27, 2026
Medically reviewed by Jordan Sullivan, DPM · Updated October 27, 2026
Medically reviewed by Jordan Sullivan, DPM · Updated October 27, 2026
Medically reviewed by Jordan Sullivan, DPM · Updated October 27, 2026
Medically reviewed by Jordan Sullivan, DPM · Updated October 27, 2026