Do you have one toe significantly shorter than the others due to a condition called brachymetatarsia? At Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery in Burbank, Santa Clarita, and Northridge, California, the skilled podiatrists offer surgical correction to lengthen a shorter toe and correct its structure and appearance. Call the office to get started, or request an appointment online today.
request an appointmentWhat is brachymetatarsia?
Brachymetatarsia is a condition in which you have a short toe due to growth disturbance in the affected bone. It’s common to have a short fourth toe, but brachymetatarsia can affect any of your toes. If the affected toe is painful, negatively affects mobility, or causes distress due to its appearance, see the Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery team for an evaluation.
What are the symptoms of brachymetatarsia?
The hallmark symptoms of brachymetatarsia include having a short toe and pain associated with it. You might feel embarrassed about the affected toe and try to hide your feet as a result. You may also develop pressure calluses or experience irritation when wearing certain shoes.
Brachymetatarsia can affect more than one of your toes and occur in one or both feet. It’s often noticeable during early childhood.
Even if you don’t have bothersome symptoms, you might choose surgical correction.
What can cause brachymetatarsia?
The most common cause of brachymetatarsia is genetics, so if you have a family history of the condition, your risk of developing it increases. TrauYou might first try altering your footwear, doing stretches, modifying your physical activity, or using custom orthotics, arch supports, splints, or pads to prevent irritation.
Brachymetatarsia is more common among women, people with Down’s syndrome, and those with a condition called pseudohypoparathyroidism.
Is brachymetatarsia treatment right for me?
If you’re bothered by brachymetatarsia, treatment is available. Many patients who seek treatment struggle with toe pain, foot pain, embarrassment, or interference with walking and exercise. Your podiatrist examines your feet and toes, reviews your medical history and symptoms, and takes X-rays or other imaging procedures.
What should I expect during brachymetatarsia surgery?
Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery offers toe lengthening surgery to create a normal structure and function of a short toe. Your podiatrist lengthens the metatarsal bones by cutting the affected bone, using bone grafts, or gradually lengthening the tissues using an external fixator.
Your provider first numbs the treatment area before surgery to ensure you don’t feel pain. They may insert surgical hardware to achieve exceptional, long-lasting results.
After surgical correction of brachymetatarsia, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions. Eat nutritious foods, avoid smoking, take medications as directed, and get plenty of rest during the healing process. The affected toe might take several weeks or months to heal fully.
To get treated for brachymetatarsia, schedule an appointment at Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery by phone or request one online today.
