Hammertoes
Hammertoe Treatment in Fort Worth & Burleson, TX
Hammertoes are a common toe deformity that can cause pain, irritation, and difficulty wearing shoes. Over time, the affected toe bends abnormally and may become stiff or rigid.
Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM is a dual board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon providing comprehensive hammertoe treatment in Fort Worth and Burleson, Texas. Both conservative and surgical options are available depending on severity.
What is a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe occurs when one of the smaller toes bends downward at the middle joint, creating a curled or hammer-like appearance.
Early in the condition, the toe may remain flexible. Over time, it can become rigid and more difficult to correct without surgery.
Hammertoes often develop in conjunction with other foot conditions such as bunions or flatfoot deformity.
What Are The Common Symptoms?
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Toe bending or curling
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Pain with shoes
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Corns or calluses on top of the toe
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Redness or swelling
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Difficulty fitting into footwear
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Symptoms often worsen as the deformity becomes more rigid.
What Are The Causes And Risk Factors?
Hammertoes develop due to muscle imbalance within the foot.
Common contributing factors include:
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Bunions
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Flatfoot deformity
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Tight footwear
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Neuropathy
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Prior injury
These factors can lead to progressive deformity over time.
What Are The Treatment Options?
Most cases can initially be treated without surgery.
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Wider, more supportive footwear
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Padding to reduce pressure
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Toe spacers or splints
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Orthotics to improve foot mechanics
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Activity modification
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These treatments help relieve symptoms but do not correct the deformity.
Surgery may be recommended when:
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Pain persists despite conservative treatment
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The deformity becomes rigid
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Ulcer risk develops
Procedures may include:
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Tendon balancing
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Joint resection
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Toe fusion procedures
Surgical planning depends on whether the deformity is flexible or rigid and whether other conditions are present.
What Is The Recovery Timeline?
Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed.
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Many patients are able to walk in a surgical shoe early
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Swelling may persist for several weeks
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Gradual return to normal footwear
Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and shoe comfort.
When To See A Specialist?
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Pain with shoe wear
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Progressive toe deformity
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Corns or skin irritation
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Difficulty walking comfortably
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Early evaluation can prevent worsening deformity.
Dr. Ryba sees patients in Fort Worth and Burleson, TX through
Lonestar Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists, PLLC.
When scheduling, please request an appointment specifically with Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM.