Understanding Hammertoes: History, Treatment Options, and the Role of Sports Medicine

Hammertoes are a common foot deformity that can cause significant discomfort and impact your daily activities. At Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates, Dr. Derrick McKay specializes in diagnosing and treating hammertoes, offering both surgical and non-surgical options to help you find relief.

A Brief History of Hammertoes

Hammertoes, also known as contracted toes, have been recognized for centuries. The condition involves a deformity of the muscles and ligaments of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe, bending it into a shape resembling a hammer 

Hammertoes, also known as contracted toes, have been recognized for centuries. The condition involves a deformity of the muscles and ligaments of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe, bending it into a shape resembling a hammer. Historical records indicate that hammertoes were noted in ancient civilizations, often linked to footwear choices and lifestyle. The condition was first clearly described in medical literature in the late 19th century.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defense against hammertoe pain. These methods aim to relieve discomfort and prevent the condition from worsening:

1. Proper Footwear: Wearing roomy, comfortable shoes that provide plenty of space for your toes can help reduce pressure on the hammertoe.
2. Padding and Shoe Inserts: Over-the-counter pads or cushions act as a buffer between your foot and your shoe, easing pain. Padded shoe inserts can help distribute pressure evenly when you move your feet.
3. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help control pain and inflammation.
4. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the hammertoe can help relieve soreness and swelling.
5. Orthotics: Custom orthotic devices can help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.
6. Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help reverse the muscle imbalance that causes hammertoes. Exercises like picking up marbles with your toes or scrunching a towel can be beneficial.

Surgical Treatment Options



When non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary. Hammertoe surgery involves correcting the deformity and realigning the toe. There are several surgical techniques available:

1. Osteotomy: Making small incisions in the foot and toe bones and inserting screws or pins to realign the joint.
2. Arthrodesis (Joint Fusion): Fusing the bones of the affected joint permanently, often used if arthritis caused the hammertoe.
3. Tendon Release: Releasing the tendon that's keeping the toe curled up.
4. Exostectomy: Shaving off the hammertoe.

Minimally invasive techniques are becoming more common, offering faster recovery times and less scarring

Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing hammertoe symptoms and improving foot function. Physical therapists can help with:

1. Pain Management: Techniques to reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Exercise and Stretching: Exercises to improve the angle of the big toe, enhance muscle strength, and restore walking ability.
3. Gait Training: Improving walking patterns to reduce pressure on the bunion.
4. Education: Guidance on proper footwear and self-care to manage symptoms.

Sports medicine is also integral in treating hammertoes, especially for athletes. It focuses on preventing injuries, enhancing recovery, and ensuring safe return to activities. Dr. McKay integrates sports medicine principles to provide comprehensive care for hammertoe-related issues, helping you maintain an active lifestyle

Meet Dr. Derrick McKay, DPM, FACFAS

Dr. McKay was introduced to foot and ankle surgery when he began college and was immediately fascinated by the complexities of the foot and ankle. He frequently hears patients say, “I don’t notice my feet until they start bothering me.” Foot and ankle pain can be very debilitating and interfere with daily activities. Dr. McKay enjoys helping people literally get back on their feet and resume their normal lives.

While living in Chicago and Boston during his medical training, Dr. McKay still considered the Columbia Basin to be home. As a Kennewick native, it was important to him to return to the Tri-Cities to begin his career and give back to the community that has already given him so much.

Dr. McKay is board certified in Foot & Ankle Surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery®. He is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He attended podiatric school at Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery and completed his residency at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Brighton, MA. His special emphasis areas include foot and ankle surgery, trauma, sports medicine, and pediatric and adult deformity corrections.

Hammertoes can be a painful and disruptive condition, but with the right treatment, you can find relief and improve your quality of life. At Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates, Dr. Derrick McKay offers a range of options, from non-surgical treatments to advanced surgical techniques, along with physical therapy and sports medicine support. Don't let hammertoes hold you back—seek expert care and get back on your feet.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Derrick McKay, please don't hesitate to contact us at 509-585-3622.