Hammer Toe Surgery
Relief for Toe Pain & Deformities
Understanding Hammer Toes
A hammertoe is a painful deformity that typically affects the second, third, or fourth toe. It occurs when the ligaments and tendons that hold the toe straight become imbalanced and tighten. This causes the middle joint of the toe to permanently buckle, cocking the toe upward so it resembles a hammer.
Because the toe is bent upward, it constantly rubs against the inside of your shoes. This relentless friction quickly leads to inflammation, bursitis, and the formation of painful corns and calluses. The condition is often accelerated by wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled footwear, or as a secondary complication from a bunion pushing the toes out of alignment.
Flexible vs. Rigid Deformities
During the early stages, a hammertoe is considered flexible—meaning you can still physically push the toe flat. At this stage, conservative treatments like custom orthotics, splints, and wider shoes can provide immense relief. However, if left untreated, the tendons freeze and the joint becomes rigid. Once a hammertoe is permanently rigid, surgery is the only way to correct the bone structure and relieve the pain.
Advanced Surgical Correction
If conservative measures fail, Dr. Soltani specializes in advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques to restore the natural function and appearance of your toes. Depending on the severity of your case, options include:
- Tendon Transfer: Rerouting a tendon from the bottom of the toe to the top, allowing the muscle tension to naturally pull the toe straight.
- Joint Resection (Arthroplasty): Removing a small piece of the buckled bone to relieve the tension and allow the toe to lay flat.
- Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): Fusing the joint bones together. A temporary surgical pin (K-wire) is often used to hold the toe perfectly straight while the bone heals.
- Permanent Implants: Utilizing state-of-the-art internal rods or screws that remain inside the toe to maintain permanent, straight alignment without the need for external pins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Podiatry Services
Comprehensive Care For Your Foundation
With more than 20 years of experience treating patients with complex foot and ankle problems, we are proud to be one of the most reliable podiatry clinics in Irvine, California.
Toenail Laser Treatment
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Stem Cell Therapy
Advanced regenerative medicine designed to treat joint degeneration, inflammation, and chronic pain without surgery.
Custom Orthotics
Our comprehensive podiatric system includes custom foot orthotics to correct mechanics and provide stronger pain relief.
Why Choose Us?
Over 20 Years of Clinical Excellence
You may be surprised to know that your feet are not supposed to hurt. If you are experiencing daily foot pain, you are not alone; nearly sixty percent of the population seeks help for a foot problem every year. If you are looking for a trusted specialist in Orange County, we are here to help you get back to a pain-free life.
20+ Years Podiatry Experience
State-of-the-Art Technology
Unmatched Patient Satisfaction
