The lesser toes are all those other than the big toe, which can become deformed or damaged from trauma, arthritis, genetic factors and improper shoes. Our toes play an essential role in our mobility and provide stability and balance for each step we take. However, when the toes or damaged or have a deformity, it causes difficulties with walking, standing and physical activity.

What are the various types of lesser toe deformities?

The most common types of lesser toe deformities result from contracted and damaged tendons that impact the toes' flexibility and movement. These are:

• Claw toe: The first toe bone is raised and the other two point downwards, resembling a claw.
• Mallet toe: In contrast to claw toe, this condition features the first two toe bones as straight but slightly raised and the third toe bone pointing downwards.
• Hammer toe: This condition is characterised by the first toe bone being raised, the second toe bone pointing downwards, and the third being flat.

What are the signs of lesser toe deformities?

With lesser toe deformities, various signs indicate a change in the anatomy. These may include:

• Curled or crooked toes
• Malalignment of the toe bones
• Difficulty walking
• Pain and swelling in the toes and top of the foot

Dr Alexander will perform various assessments, X-rays and scans to check the bone structure and diagnose your condition before recommending treatment.

When is lesser toe deformity correction necessary?

Surgical intervention is common in lesser toe deformities, especially if you have an underlying neurological condition that impacts the strength of your feet and balance. Beyond this, surgical correction is used in cases where conventional methods have failed, or there is pain or difficulty walking.

Lesser toe deformities can also lead to the formation of calluses or corns, causing further discomfort.

What is involved in lesser toe deformity correction surgery?

Lesser toe deformity correction surgery involves various techniques that help realign the lesser toe bones to improve mobility and balance. Dr Alexander performs the surgery while you are under general anaesthesia and may do several procedures.

• Tendon transfer: Dr Alexander lengthens, shortens or replaces a tendon impacting the lesser toes and causing contraction.
• Soft tissue surgery: In some cases, the soft tissue around the tendon of the pinched toe becomes stiff and trapped. Dr Alexander removes the soft tissue to release the tendon and ease contraction.
• Joint fusion: Dr Alexander adjusts the bent joint by removing cartilage and fusing the bones with a graft or screws, allowing the toe or toes to flatten.

After the procedure, Dr Alexander will stitch the incisions and apply a cast or stint to the foot to help with alignment during recovery.

Recovery after lesser toe deformity correction surgery

Depending on the procedure, you may receive different aftercare instructions from Dr Alexander.

It's essential to follow all guidelines and visit for regular check-ins on your progress and healing. The risk of misalignment is high, so you must wear a stint or boot and avoid placing pressure on your foot until it completely heals.