Topics
collapse
About Flexor and Extensor Tenotomies
About Hammertoe and Mallet Toe Disorder Treatments
Treatment FAQ
Photos & Testimonials
Schedule Your Appointment or Virtual Consultation
Quick, minimally invasive relief for flexible hammertoes
Flexor/Extensor Tenotomy is a small tendon release that can help straighten flexible hammertoes or claw toes and reduce painful rubbing and pressure.
-
- Tiny incision, minimally invasive
- Often done with local anesthesia
- Most people are able to walk the same day
Ready for Relief?
Contact Feet for Life Centers to schedule your consultation and receive your patient guide for a deeper understanding of tenotomy procedures and recovery.
About Flexor and Extensor Tenotomies
Flexor Tenotomy
Flexor Tenotomy is a minimally invasive procedure that releases the tendon beneath the toe, correcting flexible hammertoes and mallet toes. By relieving tendon tension, the toe realigns naturally, reducing discomfort and improving functionality.
Extensor Tenotomy
Extensor Tenotomy similarly addresses tendon tension on the top of the toe through a small incision, correcting dorsal contractures and improving toe alignment.
Hammertoe Relief in St. Louis & Chesterfield
Why Toe Disorders Require Treatment
Hammertoes and mallet toes can cause painful rubbing, corns/calluses, and shoe irritation. Over time, pressure points can worsen—especially for patients with diabetes or reduced sensation
Benefits of Choosing Feet for Life Centers
- Board-certified podiatry team
- Minimally invasive options when appropriate
- Two convenient locations: St. Louis + Chesterfield
- Clear plan + recovery guidance
Ideal Candidates
- Toe deformity is still flexible (can be gently straightened)
- Painful rubbing / pressure points, corns, calluses
- Trouble fitting shoes comfortably
- Diabetes or risk of skin breakdown (when clinically appropriate)
- Want a minimally invasive option before bigger surgery
What to Expect: Safety, Results & Recovery
Flexor/Extensor Tenotomy is commonly used to help straighten flexible hammertoes or claw toes by releasing a tight tendon. When it’s the right fit, it can quickly reduce painful pressure and rubbing.
- Typically performed in-office for appropriate candidates
- Often done with local anesthesia
- Tiny incision, minimally invasive
- Most patients can walk the same day in a protective shoe
- Best results when the toe is still flexible (rigid deformities may need other treatment)
Our safety-first approach
We confirm candidacy on exam, review circulation/skin risk factors (especially for diabetes), and provide clear aftercare instructions with scheduled follow-up.
Not sure if your toe is flexible? Schedule an evaluation.
Ready for Relief?
Contact Feet for Life Centers to schedule your consultation and receive your patient guide for a deeper understanding of tenotomy procedures and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will I recover?
Most patients return to normal activities within days.
Yes, patients generally walk immediately using protective footwear.
Yes, tendon release typically realigns the toe instantly.
With proper footwear and care, results are typically long-lasting.
Photos and Testimonials
Photos
Patient
The entire staff at Feet for Life are fantastic! Dr. Horwitz and Dr. Shah are the best podiatrists in town. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my feet!
Patient
I highly recommend Feet For Life Podiatry. The staff is friendly, responsive and professional. Everyone from the front desk employees, medical assistants, nurses, nurse anesthetist to Dr. Shah were a pleasure to work with. My surgery was a success and my recovery went exactly as explained. Call today and set up your consultation!
