Foot pain, discomfort, joint inflammation: these are all symptoms that anyone with hammer toes has undoubtedly experienced. It can be hard to go for a jog, walk the dogs, or even get your shopping done with the slew of side effects caused by this condition. 

However, many people have claimed that using a hammer toe corrector can improve matters considerably. But do they really work? Here’s everything you need to know. 

Types of Hammer Toe Correctors

If you’ve never actually used a corrector for your hammer toes, you might not know that there are actually multiple types to choose from, some of which might work better for you than others. There are toe wraps, which wrap around the afflicted toe and the one next. These are typically starter correctors, as they are simple, washable, and don’t really get in much of your way. There are also gel toe separators, which physically separate the toes and work to straighten them with their gel padding. You can also try sock correctors, toe cushions, and several variations of typical correctors. Some are cheap, while others are a bit more expensive, but you won’t have to pay an arm and a leg regardless. 

How a Hammer Toe Corrector Can Help

Firstly, it must be said that hammer toe orthotics cannot permanently fix your hammer toes, so it’s important for you to know what they are capable of actually doing for you before you go out and purchase one. That being said, they are still very useful for temporarily straightening the toe with a small amount of pressure, which will relieve some of the strain that is usually put on it. Many correctors also provide support and gel cushioning to reduce the pain and discomfort that is generally present. If you’ve got hammer toes, these can be worth a try, even if they can’t technically “fix” them.  

So What WILL Work?

While wearing a hammer toe corrector can help to alleviate some of the discomfort and pain that is associated with the condition, it, unfortunately, cannot actually correct the hammer toe. So, what can you do? While there are a few options available to you, such as continuing to wear orthotics and correctors that reduce the pain, there is only one true way to fix a hammer toe: surgery.

This doesn’t mean you must have your toe dissected in the process. With minimally invasive surgery, like the kind offered at Northwest Surgery Center, you can be in and out on the same day typically about two hours later. Not only that, but you will be able to walk out the front door on your own two feet and drive yourself home.

Ready to Fix Your Hammer Toes Once and for All?

While there is nothing wrong with wearing a hammer toe corrector, they cannot act as a permanent solution to the problem. If you’re tired of dealing with all the orthotics and are ready to do something proactive about your condition, Northwest Surgery Center has you covered. Our team of professionals has unmatched experience in dealing with hammer toes, bunions, and similarly related conditions. With minimally invasive surgery, you’ll be able to do all the things you used to enjoy without the constant discomfort of your hammer toe burdening you.

Want to learn more about minimally invasive surgery for your hammer toe? Northwest Surgery Center is here to help. Reach out to us or give our toll-free number a call at 800-873-1060 today!