HAMMER/CLAW TOES

pdlinda · ‎10-23-2011

I had hammer toe surgery MANY years ago. The surgery was a failure as although it straightened out the middle joint (hammer toe) it produced a raised upper joint (claw toes). 2 toes on the left foot and 3 toes on the right foot are involved.

Throughout all these years I have never been able to wear open-toe shoes. The ONLY shoes I can wear are closed toe shoes and styles must include no contact with my claw toes.

Lately, I've developed sharp pain in the right toe next to my big toe. I have to apply lidocaine to dull the pain several times throughout the day and night.

I consulted an ortho foot surgeon for possibility of revision surgery. He outlined a major surgery (to repair 5 toes (he'll repair one foot at a time in separate procedures) with a 6 week recovery period. I essentially won't be able to do much around the house, go outside(I live on the 2nd floor up 31 steps) or drive.

Does anyone know of a more "conservative approach" to managing these claw toes? I saw a lot of products available on Amazon but I don't know where to start in selecting one or a few.

I'd like to avoid the surgery if at all possible. THANKS SO MUCH for any suggestions for me to try.

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

@pdlinda I'm so sorry you have to endure such pain. I'm guessing it really adversely affects your life. My mom had hammer toes, had surgery but was in pain until the day she died. I never, ever saw her wear a sandal.

Have you considered getting a second opinion on possible corrective surgery?

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

pdlinda · ‎10-23-2011

I was wondering if I would be better off consulting with a podiatrist instead of an ortho surgeon.

I already have had 2 hips and 1 knee replaced so I know all about orthopedic surgery.

For some reason I thought the toe surgery would be much more minimal insofar as recovery than those other surgeries but I was WRONG.

With my hips and knee I was driving in 4 weeks and able to ambulate around the house and go outside (with assistance) by week 2.

I have never been to a podiatrist so maybe someone reading my post will be able to give me some good info on that and, yes, like your mother, this condition has been a hindrance in many areas of comfort in my life!

Krimpette · ‎03-09-2010

I have one hammer toe and always put on my "hammer toe crutch" every morning after my shower. (I buy them from Amazon and they slip over the toe.) They are somewhat clear so I'm able to wear sandals.

spumoni99 · ‎02-16-2019

I think a podiatrist is really your way to go. My husband has chronic foot issues, he is on a knee scooter now he gets an infection in one of his toes frequently. His podiatrist really knows his stuff though.

moonandthestars · ‎03-11-2010

@pdlinda I don't have the actual answer to your situation, but I would recommend that you definitely see a podiatrist or two (or three) for a consultation. Maybe check with another ortho surgeon too for perhaps a different opinion. I think it's best to gather your information and possibilities - be informed.

Hope you feel better soon

ALRATIBA · ‎07-15-2016

@pdlinda

I've been using these toe separators for years. Work just fine. (from Amazon)

(I know several people who are very unhappy with results of surgery ... so it's not something I would even consider)

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@pdlinda wrote:
I had hammer toe surgery MANY years ago. The surgery was a failure as although it straightened out the middle joint (hammer toe) it produced a raised upper joint (claw toes). 2 toes on the left foot and 3 toes on the right foot are involved.

Throughout all these years I have never been able to wear open-toe shoes. The ONLY shoes I can wear are closed toe shoes and styles must include no contact with my claw toes.

Lately, I've developed sharp pain in the right toe next to my big toe. I have to apply lidocaine to dull the pain several times throughout the day and night.

I consulted an ortho foot surgeon for possibility of revision surgery. He outlined a major surgery (to repair 5 toes (he'll repair one foot at a time in separate procedures) with a 6 week recovery period. I essentially won't be able to do much around the house, go outside(I live on the 2nd floor up 31 steps) or drive.

Does anyone know of a more "conservative approach" to managing these claw toes? I saw a lot of products available on Amazon but I don't know where to start in selecting one or a few.

I'd like to avoid the surgery if at all possible. THANKS SO MUCH for any suggestions for me to try.

Tinkrbl44 · ‎08-23-2010

@moonandthestars wrote:
@pdlinda I don't have the actual answer to your situation, but I would recommend that you definitely see a podiatrist or two (or three) for a consultation. Maybe check with another ortho surgeon too for perhaps a different opinion. I think it's best to gather your information and possibilities - be informed.

Hope you feel better soon

@moonandthestars @pdlinda

Yes, please get SEVERAL professional opinions.

mb141312 · ‎08-07-2012

@Krimpette, would you be willing to share a link to or other information about the Amazon product you use? I have a hammer toe and I'd love to try any item that has a positive recommendation.

Krimpette · ‎03-09-2010

@mb141312 From Amazon: PEDFIX Visco Gel Item #1037 (4 pk) (I buy medium). (They last a long time.). I might have gotten other brands also from Amazon, but I couldn't find my orders. (It's been quite awhile since I've needed to order more.). Good luck. (My podiatrist approves).