Crossover Toe Can Cause Serious Pain

Ryan Murphy, DPM, FACFAS
586-263-4411

Surgical procedure can correct crossover toe and keep you active

Crossover toe is a common foot problem that can inhibit physical activity because of pain that it can cause, but outpatient surgery can correct the deformity and keep people active and on their feet.

Individuals with hammertoes, bunions, or a second toe that extends beyond the big toe are most susceptible to developing crossover toe which can continue to progress over time.

This is a very common problem in which the second toe gradually moves across the big toe. It can be painful and, therefore, difficult to walk comfortably or pursue an active lifestyle.

The first symptom of crossover toe is pain in the ball of the foot. A tear in the joint makes the second toe unstable. It falls out of alignment and eventually drifts.

Doctors normally check the ball of the foot for a possible plantar-plate tear when a patient complains of pain in the area.Pre-existing forefoot problems combined with normal wear and tear or possible trauma can cause the plate to tear over time.

Off-loading of the area and splinting are some of the conservative care approaches to dealing with this condition, however there is not a conservative way to repair the ligament and get the toe back into the correct position. If the pain persists and the toe starts to drift, surgery is recommended to suture the plantar plate or replace it through a tendon-transfer.

Surgery to correct crossover toe is an outpatient procedure performed with a local anesthesia. Patients with bunions or hammertoes are advised to have those deformities corrected during the surgery.

If you're a person who has persistent pain in the ball of your foot, it's in your best interest to see a doctor. If your foot hurts, you aren't exercising, which can lead to a multitude of other health issues.

The doctors at Hosey and Murphy Foot and Ankle Centers are extremely well trained and have lots of experience in treating this condition. We would love to have the opportunity to evaluate you and try to get you back to a pain free lifestyle.

Author

Ryan Murphy, DPM, FACFAS Dr. Murphy graduated from the Scholl College of podiatric medicine in 2009 and is now board certified by the college of Foot and Ankle Surgeons in diagnosis and treatment of any condition involving the foot and ankle. He is the owner of Hosey and Murphy Foot and Ankle Centers. Dr. Murphy specializes in sports medicine, fracture repair, forefoot surgery, and the treatment and surgical correction of ankle pain. He’s a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, and has published numerous articles in respected podiatric medical journals.