Podiatrist Blog

Posts for tag: metatarsal bone

By Joseph Stuto, DPM
May 30, 2018
Category: foot conditions
Tags: hammertoes   calluses   corns   podiatrist   metatarsal bone   x-ray   shoes   orthotic  

If you have been experiencing some discomfort in your feet, it isn’t unnatural for you to get curious and take a look down at your toes. What is it that is causing the discomfort? Can I remove something to make it better? If you look down and notice that your second toe, also known as your pointer toe, is longer than your other toes, including your big toe, this could be a sign of a more complicated foot problem known as Morton’s toe.

Morton’s toe is a condition in which the pointer toe is longer than the other toes. Specifically, it is a condition in which the second metatarsal bone in the foot is elongated more than usual. This condition can often be diagnosed via x-ray in the office of a podiatrist.

What Impact Does This Have?

Morton’s toe has an impact on our daily biomechanics. This is because the pressure that is put on our feet is transferred differently in a Morton’s toe. Whenever pressure is added or shifts, the foot is more likely to endure foot pain and improper biomechanics.

Morton’s toe can also have an impact on the shoes that we choose. A shoe is most often crafted with the intention of the big toe being the longest toe. That means most shoes do not accommodate enough space for a foot with an elongated second toe, so a Morton’s toe is more likely to jam into the shoes of the sufferer. Jamming the toe can cause corns, calluses, hammertoes, nailbed problems and sprains or fractures.

Avoiding the Pain

The best way to avoid pain and find relief is to seek the help of a podiatrist. They are trained in the dealings of Morton’s toe and can help you find a good treatment option for your specific case. While biding your time for your appointment, you can try some of these simple tactics to lessen pain and suffering:

  1. Buy shoes that are bigger and can accommodate the longest toe.
  2. Try an orthotic or splint inside the shoe to reduce rubbing and jamming.
  3. Splint the toes so that they do not suffer deformity from trauma.

If you are suffering from a Morton’s toe, contact our office immediately. We can help you find a treatment option that is right for you. Call Joseph Stuto, DPM of Brooklyn, New York. There Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Joseph C. Stuto can help get you on the right path to treat your feet. Call 718-624-7537and make an appointment today.