Toe Deformities Treatment

Bunions

A bunion is a common deformity found along the inside of the foot and the largest toe.

An instability within the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint at the base of the big toe causes the entire toe to shift out of alignment. This causes a large, bony protrusion to form, and the big toe itself will often gradually encroach upon the neighboring second toe.

Similar to a bunion, a bunionette (aka a tailor’s bunion) can form on the fifth toe, along the outside of the foot.

Hammertoes

Hammertoes are common in the second toe but can occur in the third, fourth, or fifth toes as well.

A hammertoe develops when one or more of the toes remains in a curved position when at rest, bending at the middle knuckle. At first, the toe may be flexible and able to be pressed down flat, but the condition can progress over time to the point that the bend becomes rigid and fixed.

As a hammertoe worsens, pain and stiffness are likely to increase. The upper side of the toe is also likely to rub against the inside of footwear, leading to corns and sores.

Hallux Rigidus

Hallux rigidus is a condition in which the big toe gradually loses its mobility over time. The toe becomes increasingly stiff and painful over time, and those symptoms may worsen in cold or damp weather. The joint of the toe may also become swollen or aggravated, and a bump might develop on top of the foot.

Potential causes of hallux rigidus can include overuse of the toe joint, past trauma to the toe, arthritis, and inflammatory diseases. Some people may also inherit a foot structure that is more likely to experience the condition.