Brachymetatarsia
Brachymetatarsia is commonly known as a shorter toe. The 4th toe is most commonly affected by this condition. Clinically, it may even appear that the 4th toe is raised above the 3rd and 5th toes.
This condition occurs due to the long bones in the foot, known as metatarsals, fail to fully develop. Generally, bones grow at the growth plate during childhood; if the growth plates close prematurely it results in a short bone.
The main concern is the uneven distribution of weight on the bottom of the foot, leading to pain and callus formations. The shorter toe is unable to purchase the ground, leading to the adjacent toes and metatarsal bones bearing more weight, causing increase pressure.
In some cases, without pain or discomfort to the foot, this condition may be managed with careful shoe selection and fitting. In other cases, if pain and other symptoms arise, surgical intervention may be warranted.
Brachymetatarsia is commonly known as a shorter toe. The 4th toe is most commonly affected by this condition. Clinically, it may even appear that the 4th toe is raised above the 3rd and 5th toes.
This condition occurs due to the long bones in the foot, known as metatarsals, fail to fully develop. Generally, bones grow at the growth plate during childhood; if the growth plates close prematurely it results in a short bone.
The main concern is the uneven distribution of weight on the bottom of the foot, leading to pain and callus formations. The shorter toe is unable to purchase the ground, leading to the adjacent toes and metatarsal bones bearing more weight, causing increase pressure.
In some cases, without pain or discomfort to the foot, this condition may be managed with careful shoe selection and fitting. In other cases, if pain and other symptoms arise, surgical intervention may be warranted.