Complex Deformities

Complex Deformities

It is a complex deformity of great toe and 2nd toe develops as a consequence of significant hallux valgus deformity. In this deformity great toe goes below 2nd toe and 2nd toe comes over great toe with a claw deformity. This is not a hammer toe deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis develops more complex deformity of the toes by dorsal and lateral subluxation at MTP joint.     

      

Cross over toe typically occurs when the second toe deviates medially and dorsally over the hallux, leaving an increased space between the second and third toes. There was an increased incidence of both hallux valgus and first metatarsophalangeal joint degenerative arthritis in this patients. There was no correlation between a crossover second toe deformity and second metatarsal length, medial cortex thickness or shaft thickness, the 1–2 intermetatarsal angle, metatarsus adductus, metatarsus primus elevates, or pes planus. Deformity in Rheumatoid arthritis happened due to arthritic degeneration of capsule and ligament of the joint, which create imbalance of muscle pull and drag the whole toe dorsolateral along with IP joint deformity and makes the whole fore-foot crocked.

You will have a crocked looking fore-foot. there can be callosities on dorsal aspect of the PIP joint of 2nd toe. Difficulties or inability in waring normal foot-ware.  There may develop sensitive skin due to rubbing within shoe.

You should visit a orthopaedic or a specialist foot and ankle surgeon if you develop sensitive skin and pain at this area and deformity is very odd for using normal foot-ware and maintaining foot hygiene.

Your doctor will conduct a proper clinical examination which will include checking the status of the joint mobility, stability and presence of callosities both on dorsal and planter aspect. You may ask to get an x-ray of your feet in standing position. If indicated a MRI may also be required.

To start with conservative treatment in the form of NSAID, silicon toe spacers can be helpful in keeping the symptom in control. In case of significant symptom like painful callosities, significant degeneration of joint, unable to use normal foot-ware and maintaining foot hygiene one require deformity correction with surgery. Both hallux valgus and 2nd toe deformity correction by means of multiple osteotomies and soft tissue surgery. Recovery time usually 6-8 weeks.