Long Toe / Toe-Shortening Surgery

What is a Long Toe?

One of the most common genetic toe problems is the long toe. The long second toe is the most common and inspires the most patient complaints surrounding toenail pain and top-of-the-toe pain.

The top of the long toe can hit the inside of the front and top of the shoe, and cause painful friction.

Patients with Morton's toe issues may also suffer from hammertoe condition, where the middle toes are bent upward, and can form uncomfortable corns or calluses.

How We Treat a Long-Toe Condition

Depending on the patient’s lifestyle, age, and severity of the issue, conservative treatment or surgical treatment may be recommended to help alleviate ball of the foot pain involved with a long toe.

Surgical toe shortening can ease pain and discomfort, and enhance symmetry and balance, while also improving the fit of shoes and the overall cosmetic appearance of the morton's foot syndrome.

Conservative Long-Toe Treatment Options

If the pain and discomfort aren’t too severe, lifestyle changes may be the best option for treating a long-toe condition. Here are some possible conservative treatments:

Wear Different Shoes

To alleviate pain around the second toe is longer, we recommend wearing larger, more comfortable shoes. Shoes should have extra space in the front area (known as the claw toe box) and be made with softer, less abrasive materials to minimize friction on the affected toe.

Treat Corns and Calluses

Find temporary relief from corns and calluses through professional sharp debridement (shaving) or consistent at-home filing. Over-the-counter corn removal products are available but should be used with extreme caution. These medicated pads can be placed directly over the impacted area to relieve the pressure and cause the corn or callus to eventually fall off on its own.

Surgical Treatment for a Long-Toe Condition

Long toe surgery takes place in an outpatient surgery center or a clinic, with the patients under sedation and local anesthesia. The procedure, as with royal toe shortening and hammertoe correction, may or may not require an internal pin, and the incision is minimal (½ centimeter to 1 ½ centimeter).

Occasionally, an additional procedure may be necessary, but the time in the operating room is typically 20 minutes per toe.

If indicated, the skin lesion or corn can also be removed during the procedure. If not, it will naturally fall metatarsal bone off three to four weeks after the surgery.

Sutures are placed under the skin and steri-strips (surgical tape) are removed after two weeks of the second metatarsal. Patients can bear weight in a post-operative shoe or open-toe sandal after 48 to 72 hours of rest and elevation.

Sports, exercise, and wearing different types of shoes can be worn as soon as three weeks after the surgery, depending on patient preference, swelling, and incision sensitivity.

Insurance Coverage for Long-Toe Surgery

At Modern Foot and Ankle, we understand that dealing with insurance coverage can often feel like navigating a labyrinth. Our mission is to simplify this process for you, providing clear and concise information regarding your insurance benefits.

Our dedicated team is here to assist you in understanding the specifics of your insurance coverage, including which services are covered, the extent of your co-pay obligations, and any services that may not be included under your plan. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare choices.

By offering this support, we aim to alleviate some of the stress associated with financial planning for your treatment, allowing you to focus on what truly matters - your health and recovery.

Why Choose Us

Choosing the right healthcare provider is a pivotal step toward achieving optimal health outcomes. At Modern Foot and Ankle, we don't just see ourselves as your healthcare provider but as your partner in the journey towards better foot health. Here's why we stand out:

State-of-the-Art Technology

We pride ourselves on incorporating the latest technological advancements in the field of podiatry. From diagnostic tools to treatment methods, our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure precise diagnoses and effective treatments.

This commitment to innovation means our patients benefit from less invasive procedures, quicker recovery times, and better overall outcomes.

Expert Team of Specialists

Our team comprises highly trained and experienced specialists who have dedicated their careers to the study and treatment of foot and ankle conditions.

With a deep understanding of the complexities of the foot and ankle, our experts bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each case, ensuring personalized and effective treatment plans for our patients.

Comprehensive Care Approach

We believe in treating the person, not just the condition. Our comprehensive care approach means we look at all aspects of your health and lifestyle when developing a treatment plan.

This holistic perspective ensures we address the root causes of your condition, leading to more sustainable health improvements.

Patient Education and Support

Empowering our patients with knowledge about their conditions and treatment options is a cornerstone of our practice.

We provide extensive education and resources to help you understand your condition, the treatment process, and how to maintain your foot health post-treatment. Our supportive staff is always available to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Understanding that every patient's condition is unique, we customize our treatment plans to suit individual needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with a long toe condition, require toe-shortening surgery, or face another foot ailment, we tailor our approach to offer the most effective and appropriate treatment for you.

Commitment to Patient Satisfaction

Your satisfaction and comfort are paramount to us. From the moment you enter our clinic, our friendly staff strives to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment. We are committed to ensuring that your experience with us is positive, from consultation through to recovery.