Hammertoe Treatment in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI

A hammertoe is a progressive deformity — it tends to get stiffer over time. The good news is that caught early, it’s very manageable without surgery, and when correction is needed, modern procedures are quick and effective.

What is a hammertoe?

A hammertoe is an abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe, giving it a “hammer” or claw shape. It’s driven by an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control the toe, often made worse by tight or pointed shoes, and influenced by foot type (flat feet or high arches) and sometimes prior trauma or arthritis.

Symptoms

• A visibly bent or curled toe
• Pain at the top of the toe or ball of the foot, especially in shoes
• Corns or calluses where the toe rubs
• Difficulty straightening the toe (in rigid cases)

Flexible vs. rigid — why it matters

A flexible hammertoe still moves at the joint and responds well to conservative care. A rigid hammertoe has stiffened and usually requires surgery to straighten. The earlier we see it, the more options you have.

Conservative treatment

• Footwear changes — roomy, deep toe box; avoid tight/pointed shoes and high heels.
• Padding and splinting/taping — relieves pressure and can help a flexible toe sit better (it eases symptoms but won’t straighten a rigid toe).
• Custom orthotics — address the underlying mechanics and offload the ball of the foot. (See custom orthotics.)
• Corn/callus care and toe exercises to maintain flexibility.

When surgery is considered

We consider surgical correction when the toe is rigid, painful despite conservative care, causing recurrent corns/ulcers, or limiting your footwear and activity. Procedures are typically quick and outpatient — releasing or rebalancing the tendons, and straightening the joint (with a small implant or pin when needed). Our surgeons match the technique to your toe and lifestyle, and many patients bear weight in a protective shoe soon after.

Why patients choose Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Tom Biernacki, Dr. Carl Jay, and Dr. Daria Gutkin are board-certified and rated 4.9 stars by Michigan patients on Google, with thousands of foot procedures performed. We start with the least-invasive option that works and are honest about when surgery is — and isn’t — needed.

Visit us — two Michigan offices

Balance Foot & Ankle — Howell
4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843
Livingston County · (810) 206-1402
Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–4:30 PM · Free on-site parking

Balance Foot & Ankle — Bloomfield
43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Oakland County · (810) 206-1402
Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–4:30 PM · Serving Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Troy & West Bloomfield

Request your hammertoe evaluation →

Frequently asked questions

Can a hammertoe straighten out on its own?

No. A hammertoe is a progressive contracture, so it won’t correct itself and usually stiffens over time. Early conservative care can relieve symptoms and slow progression, but only surgery straightens a rigid toe.

Does taping a hammertoe help?

Taping or splinting can ease symptoms and help a still-flexible toe sit in a better position. It won’t reverse the deformity, especially once the toe has become rigid, but it’s a reasonable part of conservative care.

How do I know if my hammertoe needs surgery?

Surgery is considered when the toe is rigid, painful despite conservative care, causing recurrent corns or sores, or limiting your shoes and activity. A quick exam tells us whether you’re a candidate.

Do I need a referral?

No — podiatrists are direct-access providers in Michigan, so you can book directly even if your plan usually requires a referral.