Hammer toe can be unsightly and painful, but it does not always require surgery. For many people, the continued use of conventional footwear (i.e., shoes that possess heel elevation, toe spring, toe taper, and rigid, inflexible soles) after surgery encourages a recurrence of the original problem, be it a neuroma, a hammertoe, or a bunion. Cold therapy lasts 10-20 minutes never leave your ice packs on the leg for longer. All my toes are now straight and I was getting used to the new wider, chubby looking toes until I had the right foot done a week ago. In most cases, patients will use NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Blood vessels in the area of the cut begin to form clots that keep you from losing too much blood. Usually the patient feels very good and wants to start doing things. During that time, there are some things you can do to ensure you heal properly and minimize the pain and swelling (these two often go hand in hand). Learn more about toe fractures and other conditions that can cause these symptoms, plus treatment, People can prevent ingrown toenails by cutting the nails properly. If you have a hammertoe or are concerned that a hammertoe is developing,contact us at Nagy Footcarefor effective diagnosis and treatment. However, this is only possible in milder cases where the affected toe is still flexible. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. Have you tried walking just in socks or barefooted? Yay.. 1st shower( without pin and plastic cover) at 6 weeks too. She had a pin put in her toe for her hammer toe at the same time. Pain and Swelling Hammer toe surgery requires the cutting of skin, nerves, tendon and bone, and as such, pain and swelling are not unexpected following the surgery, according to Premier Podiatry. It's easy to do. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Use of the forums is subject to our Terms of Use It's very painful. by Sheri. All rights reserved. A surgical site creates a wound, so there is the small possibility of developing an infection afterward, according to Premier Podiatry. FAX: (603) 964-6515. Surgery can often be done with a local anesthetic that only numbs the toe, so the person remains awake during the operation. About Us Some medical teams have the option of offering, Having hallux rigidus, also known as a stiff big toe, can make standing or walking difficult because of the pain. It was very painful but after awhile it went away. A doctor may also recommend putting a pad over the joint to prevent it from rubbing against shoes. Contact Us If your feet are still swollen please don't force them in shoes. I landed back in hospital, on a drip, for 3 days! Over 300,000 hammertoe surgeries are performed each year. Certain food groups have a tendency to raise your blood sugars and should be avoided. Our doctors at Luxe Foot Surgery clinic is experienced and talented they will take excellent care of you. Immediately following the outpatient surgical procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will place a boot on your foot. Bunionectomy After image taken six months post surgery. im 5 weeks ans 1 day. This is not wise. However, cutting an already ingrown nail at home can make it worse. A wound dehiscence refers to a surgery that does not heal or breaks open after healing. i have an infection in one of my toes. The most common cause of a wound dehiscence is infection. An orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist can help a person correct the problem before surgery becomes necessary, so anyone experiencing symptoms of hammer toe should speak to their doctor before allowing it to get worse. After your procedure is complete, your trusted podiatrist closes the incisions with a stitch and applies compression dressing. I go to the gym, dance zumba, do pilates (can stand on toes now and do lunges was too painful earlier). Rarely, the pain and swelling can become permanent. A fusion procedure can reduce the severity of a fixed hammer toe. One reason why a person may be hesitant to have rigid hammertoes treated is down to the nature of traditional foot surgery. After about 2-3 weeks, your doctor will remove the stitches. Dehiscence means that the wound has healed poorly or breaks open after healing. appreciate it. A Hammertoe, also known as a claw toe, is a deformity that gradually causes your toe to bend downward. Is this normal. How did it go? Before surgery, a doctor will likely perform blood work and ask the person about their medical history. My husband is a pediatrician who works very long hours. My doctor said and I have read it also swelling would can't for up to a year. I still have the strips in the other places. During a lapiplasty, our surgeons use tiny, highly specialized tools to completely rotate your misaligned metatarsal bone. effective way to correct a hammer toe, however by fusing the toe we make the toe stiff at one of the joints. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. Always beware of the possible side effects of over the counter supplements. Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing hammer toe. I asked for it since I read a lot about PT being very helpful. This is why I had to have another surgery.I injured my 3rd&4th toe in the shower while shaving my legs. This happened 2/4/2017. After traditional foot surgery, you can expect to leave the clinic with a surgical boot, crutches, or even a knee scooter. I have iced, soaked & elevated my foot & got no relief. Then we lived in CT for three years in CT and since 1993 we are in SE Massachusetts. Somersworth, NH 03878 I had hammertoe surgery just over 2. weeks ago. I'm finding that for me this procedure has been an emotional journey as well as a physical one. Recovery Time The amount of time it will take you to recover from hammertoe surgery will vary depending on the type of surgery performed, but generally, you can expect the following: Bunion Surgery: Blog You can have sedation, but its not necessary. Under local anesthetic, a person will not be able to feel the procedure itself, but they may feel pressure or pulling. Copyright 2017-2023 Nagy Footcare. Somersworth (603) 516-4411. Keeping the affected leg and foot elevated can reduce swelling. Ask an Expert Medical Questions I still have pain and swelling 7 weeks after hammertoe Dr. B., Doctor 7,827 Satisfied Customers Physician with 8 years of experience. The surgery is performed to lessen pain and/or improve flexibility when the muscles in the toe can't stretch and straighten. The recovery time following hammer toe surgery can vary depending on the procedure performed. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'foot_pain_explained_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_3',177,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-foot_pain_explained_com-medrectangle-4-0');MedlinePlus, Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation. It is also known as "Sausage Finger" or "Sausage Toe" because of the localized, painful swelling that causes digits to look like sausages. and rest with your foot propped up on a stack of pillows and apply ice for 10-15 minutes every 2-3 hours to relieve swelling. These traditional procedures require larger incisions which can lead to post-operative swelling and visible scarring. You will need to wrap the tape under the big toe, over the hammer toe, and under the toe next to the hammertoe to help keep it in a straight . just started antibiotics today, but im super worried and just want ti be back to normal. Minimally invasive surgery improves patient outcomes by reducing the risk of infection and scarring. At present I wouldn't be able to walk to the end of our street without having to hobble back like I'm 100 years old. Right now my foot doesn't fit into anything, except still the surgical shoe. You may not be able to put weight on the foot during those 6 weeks. It is swollen and frozen. I am 65 and I do dancing for pleasure and exercise. Removing a toe can change the way a person balances on their foot. However, we must note that you shouldnt spend the entire recovery period off your feet. I had two surgeries because the first failed (first one was February 28th and second surgery was April 9th) and was able to walk in June. I guess I keep doing so. The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery recently reported a meta analysis of outcomes in 1583 Scarf bunionectomies that met their inclusion criteria. And that open toe surgical sandal. People with a history of bad reactions to general anesthesia or who want the shortest possible recovery time might prefer a local anesthetic. Hammertoe surgery was done on both feet, second toe on each foot at the same time. I am limping worse than before and I feel quite discouraged. Hammer toe surgery can be highly effective in people for whom the primary or only issue is hammer toe. What to Expect After Hammertoe Surgery? Most patients are back on their feet and participating in normal activities within three weeks of minimally invasive hammertoe surgery. What is the long-term impact of toe fusion surgery? I take a 7 and purchase a 8 slip on. Also, as the joints are left intact, your recovery time is much shorter. Delayed healing or dehiscence wounds that wont heal are common in smokers and patients with metabolic diseases. how are you now? To understand this, its crucial to know that every surgery presents a certain level of trauma to the tissue even quick, outpatient procedures like minimally invasive hammertoe surgery. Is this really the be. It is suggested that cancer may surpass CVD as the number one cause of death in older diabetics. I interviewed 7 surgeons before settling on my surgeon but it was hard to find references from former bunion patients so I'm just praying everything will work out! Exercises to improve strength in the toe and foot muscles may help the toe heal. Surgery was done to stop pain from fractured toe that was still painful after 2 years so I've had this pain for 3 years now. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Traditional procedures can take a few months, but minimally invasive ones will take only about 4-6 weeks. 325-1 Lafayette Road My 2nd toe is numb am very swollen . Maybe try wearing slides with socks on? My foot feels better than it has in months. And long walks. After surgery, you will need to wear a special type of shoe to protect your toe and to keep it in the right position for 3 to 6 weeks. Hammer toe surgery requires the cutting of skin, nerves, tendon and bone, and as such, pain and swelling are not unexpected following the surgery, according to Premier Podiatry. Surgery might be your only solution for severe pain and discomfort caused by hallux rigidus, but there are some expenses to take into account if, If you suffer from arthritis, stem cell injections can be used as a form of treatment in addition to the common orthopedic care. The reduced space in the toe box causes your toes to bend to fit in the available space. This article, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Cal. I only wore sandals for 3 months after I was able to walk.. Your doctor may suggest that you elevate for about 30 minutes every two hours or on an as-needed basis if you notice a high amount of swelling or pain after the initial . You say you were instructed to flex and bend your foot and toes. Tendons attach muscle to bone. It may be necessary to wear a special shoe or a shoe insert to support the toe following the procedure. about laying down on sofa or bed with my feel elevated. My Dr told me i'd be able to drive and begin PT as soon as I can walk but I just hobble. not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in Your doctor can prescribe you medication to manage the pain. A host of potential complications may result from hammertoe surgery and the most common list includes but is not limited to: infection, neuritis, painful or unsightly scarring, chronic swelling, malunion or nonunion of bone, and recurrence of deformity. It is very important to be patient with this swelling. Immediately after your surgery, the operated toe will be red, a bit swollen, and maybe even stiff for a while even though the deformity was corrected successfully. Bunion removed 12 yrs. There is also the chance of developing a flail toe, one that does not sit flat on the ground. Pins are usually removed from the toe between four and six weeks post-surgery. Privacy Policy, SEABROOK The typical recovery duration after bunion surgery is 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the amount of soft tissue and bone affected. Specialties: Northwest Surgery Center has been performing minimally invasive bunion surgery in the U.S. for more than 30 years. college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. My doctor said that I could drive when I can wear normal shoes. Your doctor will inform you about all the possible risks before you schedule the procedure, but here are a few of the most common surgery-related complications that can happen: Before you book a hammertoe surgery, you will have to come in for a consultation with a podiatrist. After hammer toe surgery: 2-3 weeks: Stitches may be removed. They will slowly get better with time. By Marc Mitnick DPM 2006-2022, foot-pain-explained.com LLC, Researchers are suggesting that the effectiveness of Vitamin D in fighting and preventing disease is predicated on a persons body mass index (BMI). I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. If you have minimally invasive surgery to correct your hammertoe, the procedure is completed in an outpatient setting with a local anesthetic. Notes on 6 weeks after bunion/hammertoe surgery - foot quite swollen, https://patient.info/forums/discuss/6-weeks-after-bunion-hammertoe-surgery-foot-quite-swollen-722059. Upgrade to Patient Pro Medical Professional? What are the Beginning Stages of an Ingrown Toenail? Some swelling may remain at this point, but a year after your operation healing should be complete and any remaining swelling will have disappeared. It takes a long time to get back to normal. Less trauma equals less pain, inflammation, and downtime for you. Often, hammertoe corrective surgery requires the patient to take significant time out of their schedule. If you are planning on having hammertoe correction, your podiatrist will explain any risks or complications involved with the procedure. There may be other reasons for your healthcare provider to recommend bunion surgery. Of course, resting is an important part of your recovery its crucial after every surgery. Posted Marc Mitnick DPM Mar 10, 2017 Rating different toes by: Stefany Hang in there, we will get there. And yes my foot was swellon for 4months I could get into a Reebok cloth tennis shoe it will take time i hope all goes well for you. She was co-founder and editor of the professional magazine "Footsteps" and began writing articles online in 2010. . Hammertoe surgery is considered quite a simple procedure, but even the simplest surgeries can have some complications. What is the recovery time for hammer toe surgery? You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. This pulls the toe into a straighter position, compensating for muscle weaknesses and improving the toes appearance. Did you try bare feet or socks around the house? Move from the ankle, and you will exercise every muscle. Hammer toe surgery can also be done under general anesthesia. The fingers or toes may also be warm and difficult . However, I think he ripped some crust that had formed over. Luckily, these scars are small and often fade over time. Recovery after hammertoe surgery will be different for every patient, length of time to full recovery will depend on following doctor's instructions. Then I bought a pair of Merrel shoes (almost bear foot with wide front), those were comfortable. First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you. Hammer toe is a condition where one of the toes becomes stiff and bent, in a position resembling the shape of a hammer. After surgery, a person will typically feel some pain in the toe and must have someone drive them home. I lived in Orange County between 1983 and 1990. My feet are not sore to walk at all! Could be normal : Because the foot is the lowest part of your body, swelling may persist for weeks after surgery. thank you for your words of encouragement. People should discuss the risks and benefits of each option. In fact we go no where. Walking can help increase circulation and reduce swelling. Infection following hammer toe surgery can usually be handled with a short course of oral antibiotics. Dr. B. is online now Related Medical Questions the-good-doctor Swelling is a reaction of your tissue to that trauma, which means that having absolutely no swelling after a surgical procedure is not realistic. Before, I had the bulky aircast boot for the first 2 weeks. The surgeon stresses the importance of that. If youre living with the pain and mobility issues caused by ahammertoe, a minimally invasive surgery to correct your toe deformity may be the best treatment to resolve your symptoms. Since you will need to rest a lot the first few days after your foot surgery, elevating your foot will significantly reduce swelling. Day 11 my right foot started stinging, stabbing and feeling not right, but naturally I couldn't see anything because of the huge bandages. You may need to wear splints on your treated toes for up to six weeks and you may benefit from physical therapy to improve flexibility in your foot and to keep the muscles strong and supple while you heal. I'm 64 and a very active cyclist and hiker so this is brutal. Is swelling something that you should worry about after surgery? For this surgery, a doctor cuts ligaments and tendons to help straighten the toe and may also remove a portion of the bone. While effective at relieving the hammertoe, these surgeries required a long recovery time and often resulted in a lifetime of swollen and stiff toes. Join in and write your own page! Once you are comfortable, you can go home with your chosen companion. I would like to know.When you have excessive swelling,why do your toes look shorter? Every specialist will ensure you understand the risks and benefits of this procedure and that you have realistic expectations. If left untreated, hammertoes can become painful and cause mobility issues. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Usually, for Christmas I do a lot of special cooking. You are lucky to live in So. Since reading several patient accounts I now realize the recovery is likely 3-5 months. If the pain in your, Monday Thursday: 9AM 7PM Friday Saturday: 9AM 7PM Sunday: Closed, This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the, How Much Does Hallux Rigidus Surgery Cost, How Long Is the Stem Cell Therapy Recovery Process, Which Is Better, PRP or Stem Cell Therapy, What to Expect After Hallux Rigidus Surgery. How? Your surgeon may use an X-ray machine or a thin surgical tool with a camera mounted on the tip to create images of your toes to guide the surgical procedure. Later that evening,I begin having excruciating pain,redness/warmth on toes/top of foot,and a lot of swelling. Pain can be controlled through the use of pain medications dispensed by the surgeon. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions before the procedure, so lets see how you can reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation. Joint resection can help with a fixed hammer toe. Finally, I settled on the one whom Boston Magazine found to be the best foot and ankle doctor in the state and I also found him on a list of 10 best foot and ankle doctors in the country. Keloids are more likely to occur in African Americans. Gallentine, J. W., & DeOrio, J. K. (2005, May). Hammertoe reoccurs in about 5 to 10% of people who have surgery. I can only wear flip flops right now, my 2 middle toes are sore & swollen & are constantly getting bumped or stubbed. I only realised that about a month ago but they've probably been good like that for 2 or 3 months. Food choices that raise your risk of type 2 diabetes. It is recommended to walk every day for at least a little bit during your recovery period. What is the latest research on the form of cancer Jimmy Carter has? Traditionally, hammertoe surgery involved incisions alongthe tops of your toes, which allowed your podiatric surgeon to release your affected toe joints and the tight tendons and muscles. Swelling after an extremity procedure is common. I want to wear something on my feet that doesn't hurt and that makes me feel normal. I was looking forward to my hammertoe pin removal and clearance to begin weight bearing but its just such a battle of swelling and pain. I had 2 bunions and all 5 hammertoes on right foot done 4 mths ago. After having a hammer toe corrected through surgery, there is the chance that the deformity will return 1. He rushes home at lunchtime to help me down to the kitchen/dining area and gives me some food. I do have a device to put on toe for swelling. I appreciate you having this website. In some cases, a wound dehiscence may occur. For example, a toe swollen a month after hammertoe surgery is considered one. A rigid hammer toe means the joint is no longer movable. You will be back to your dancing and I will be back to cycling in time. A broken pinky toe can cause swelling and pain. Bunion and 6-week post-op. You might also be advised to have physical therapy to correct the muscle imbalance in your foot. High heels can also cause the condition, because the heel pushes the front of the foot down, forward, and against the shoe. Can you do something to help yourself get through the recovery period as smoothly as possible? In some cases, a wound dehiscence may occur. Strangely feels good to have someone to snivel with. I planned my surgery and attempted to plan my sedentary time to do my end of year Continuing Education (retired accountant) and I'm taking a very intensive online class, which I'd never commit to if I were mobile. 4-6 weeks: Any surgical pins that were used may be removed. Also the skin on top of my foot and also sole, toes is very thick and hardened and now peels like crazy. The progression is predictable-from five days with absolutely no pressure on the foot, to the resumption of modified activities in six to eight weeks. I guess patience is KEY! While these untoward results can occur, they are unlikely if both the surgeon and the . Take your antibiotics religiously and expect swelling for a long time, so put your feet up often. Appointments 216.444.2606. In some cases, you may need to stay off of your feet for a few days. You will likely need to wear a special shoe or boot. Types of Hammertoe Surgery. After classifying your hammertoe as either flexible or fixed, . Removal of the second toe for severe hammertoe deformity in elderly patients [Abstract]. from him right now and I won't be back to the area until around Xmas. Dr. Faramarz Hidaji answered. Ice packs (or cold packs) can also help reduce swelling. I have a return visit with the doctor which is 6 weeks after the removal of two pens in two of the three toes operated on. Can poor sleep impact your weight loss goals? Ways To Reduce Fluid Buildup in a Swollen Foot. The most common surgical techniques employed to address the rigid or so-called fixed hammertoe deformities are PIPJ resection arthroplasty or PIPJ arthrodesis. After hammer toe surgery heals, it leaves a small scar that becomes less noticeable over time. So, what can you do in case you have a swollen toe after hammertoe surgery? The boot is TOO hard and heavy for me to walk! at our local hospital. This problem developed years ago and became a problem in the last two years. Wearing ill-fitting or pointy-toed shoes is one of the most common causes of a hammer toe. Is this something good or does it do anything bad to the foot? Floating toe this is a type of deformity where the toe cant lay flat on the surface but instead sticks up in the air. Wishing you speedy healing. The recovery period could be painful and difficult, especially in the initial stages. When I returned with pain he said it looked fine and to give it more time. This is clear evidence that the ROM exercises have not accomplished the expected results. | 3 Types of Foot Strikes That May Cause You Foot Pain While Running . Foot Surgery Every doctor will tell you to elevate your leg after hammertoe surgery, and the reason for that is simple elevation will help with the lymphatic drainage and ensure the swelling goes down quicker. Is it because of the swelling? Ice packs to reduce pain and swelling can help with pain and inflammation. I know that swelling is normal and it will last quite a while. After surgery, you may need to wear a special type of shoe or boot for 3 to 6 . You expressed it well - "I know there is light at the end of the tunnel but how long is this tunnel?". When I take it off it feels better. The only way to correct rigid hammertoes is to undergo surgery. Many patients can walk immediately following surgery in a stiff-soled, surgical shoe or boot. Join in and write your own page! Patience is key for this kind of healing journey.. I am now 6 weeks post hallux varus - big toe fusion with 4 pins (2 in each) in 2nd and 3rd Hammer toes. A flail toe sticks up in the air a bit and can be either stiff or floppy. Are there lighter weight boots for small frame, small boned woman? But I think I couldn't wear them until I was about 10-12 weeks PO. After hammer toe surgery heals, it leaves a small scar that becomes less noticeable over time. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain. The swelling has really gone down more - my foot looks normal from the top (well few scars and a funny colour and some bruising still) but it's still swollen when you look at it from the side, so I couldn't yet put my foot into most of my shoes (even if I was allowed). My incisions are pretty much healed now. In most cases, you should expect recovery to last about six weeks - after this period, pain and swelling should be gone. Its done, Platelets and stem cells work in unison together, they heal diseases and injuries in our bodies. The foot doctor said to massage it everyday, but after all this time it is still swollen and has a slight hump even though I did all that was said to do after he surgery. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, Complications From Arthroscopic Knee Surgery, How to Increase Flexibility in My Big Toes, Complications of Spinal Fusion With Harrington Rods, FootDoc.ca: Complications of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Podiatry Today: "How To Address the Complications of Hammertoe Surgery" by Molly Judge, DPM. Yes I had that done on my right foot in April 2016. Weve explained all the options in the text below. I can't wear a shoe very long maybe up to two hours and then only tennis shoes. This is not you; after bunion surgery, gentle movement is important, so you must take your time and be realistic. Following surgery, most people experience swelling, which can last up to a year. My husband came and without even asking me, quickly tore off the strips over the bunion incision. Pins to be removed next week. I was told it's because of the swelling and the x-rays look fine and no changes in bone.I was so happy with the results a few days ago. I had surgery November 21st, bunions on both feet and hammertoe fusion on my second toe, left foot (which actually is more painful and weird feeling than the bunion toes). So I'm not attempting it any more till I'm further healed. I've since seen a new doctor who has suggested some stretching but that hasn't seemed to help. I am in constant pain. Most patients have some swelling after surgery, which may last for . A compressive dressing is used until the sutures are removed 10-14 days after surgery. Kathryn Meininger began writing and publishing poetry in 1967. Not the most fashionable lol but it's a start!! After a hammertoe surgery, a mild swelling is normal. I was told that after 3 days I could take a normal shower and be able to soak my foot too. Getting the proper nutrition will provide your body with the essentials it needs to promote healing. Swelling and Pain As mentioned earlier, post surgery recovery will involve varying degrees of pain and swelling. Adverse events did not seem to be any better or wors. It's one of the hammertoe treatment options used when a defected toe loses all its flexibility and becomes rigid. I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. The problem is that my foot is too swollen and too frozen in place to be able to fit into even a wide, larger soft shoe.