Foot problems can affect how your shoes fit and how you feel while on your feet. Conditions such as hammertoe cause discomfort and difficulty walking. We put our feet through so much every day. In return, we should invest in foot care to keep our feet healthy and pain-free. Advancements in foot treatments, particularly minimally invasive hammertoe surgery, offer hope for those seeking relief from hammertoe pain and discomfort. The advantage of this cutting-edge surgery is it allows you to get back on your feet faster.
In this article, we will talk more about hammertoe, minimally invasive hammertoe surgery, and why patients recover faster and generally have better outcomes from this treatment.
Understanding Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a type of deformity that develops when the toes are pushed out of place. It usually develops over time, from wearing ill-fitting footwear.
Hammertoe usually affects the smaller toes. The affected toe becomes bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition is not just an aesthetic issue – symptoms of hammertoe include pain, difficulty wearing shoes, and the development of corns, blisters, and calluses. Over time, you may no longer be able to move the toe.
To get things back to normal, a podiatrist or foot and ankle doctor can treat hammertoe with surgery, using highly advanced, minimally invasive techniques.
Why Consider Minimally Invasive Hammertoe Surgery
Traditional hammertoe surgery typically involves making large incisions to access the bones and cutting and repositioning them. The doctor uses pins or screws for stabilization. While effective, the large incision the surgery entails results in longer recovery times and increased post-operative pain for patients. Also, the longer duration of the operation and the use of general anesthesia carries a higher risk of complications.
In contrast, minimally invasive hammertoe surgery involves a small incision made at the side of the affected toe and specialized instruments to correct the deformity. The smaller incision and specialized tools result in less tissue disruption and trauma to surrounding structures. The surgeon uses any one of several advanced techniques such as a joint fusion replacement or tendon transfer.
The procedure is an in-office procedure and is usually over in less than an hour. Patients can walk immediately after surgery and drive home by themselves. A post-operative shoe with a stiff, rocker bottom sole needs to be worn to protect the toes.
Key Benefits of Minimally Invasive Hammertoe Surgery
A minimally invasive approach offers several advantages for patients.
● Faster Recovery Times
Minimally invasive techniques allow patients to return to normal activities sooner compared to traditional surgery. With less tissue trauma and shorter healing times, individuals can get back on their feet faster and experience minimal disruption to their daily routines.
● Reduced Pain and Discomfort
By minimizing tissue damage and preserving healthy structures, minimally invasive surgery typically results in less post-operative pain and discomfort. Patients can manage pain more effectively and experience a smoother recovery process.
● Smaller Incisions and Scars
Minimally invasive procedures involve smaller incisions, resulting in smaller scars and improved cosmetic outcomes. This can be particularly beneficial for patients concerned about the aesthetic appearance of their feet following surgery.
● Lower Risk of Complications
With fewer incisions and reduced tissue trauma, minimally invasive hammertoe surgery is associated with a lower risk of complications such as infection and delayed wound healing. In addition, the anesthetic used for the surgery is local anesthesia, which means the patient stays awake and conscious throughout the procedure, which adds to the reduction in risks.
● Improved Functional Outcomes
Minimally invasive techniques aim to correct toe deformities minus the extensive tissue disturbance, which helps with preserving joint function and range of motion. This results in patients maintaining mobility, returning to work as soon as the following day after surgery, and enjoying the results of the treatment.
To get the full benefits of minimally invasive hammertoe surgery, trust only an experienced hammertoe surgeon with your foot care.
Top Hammertoe Surgeons in Warwick and Middletown, RI, and Dartmouth, MA
At the Foot and Ankle Institute of New England, our podiatrists are experienced in the most advanced techniques for treating foot problems. Our foot and ankle doctors will determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific podiatry issue and provide you with everything you need for a successful outcome.
For any questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists, call our podiatry office near you or use our online form to schedule your visit. Our friendly staff looks forward to seeing you in our Warwick, Middletown, or Dartmouth podiatry clinic.
