The long-term effects of toe shortening surgery can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the patient’s overall health. In general, the goal of the surgery is to improve the function and appearance of the affected toes, as well as to alleviate any pain or discomfort caused by the condition.
If the surgery is successful, patients can expect to see improvements in the alignment of the toes, which can help improve the overall function of the foot. Additionally, patients may experience a reduction in pain and discomfort caused by the condition.
Although many people live with long toes without difficulties, this foot condition may cause severe discomfort and even progress into other foot deformities. That is why many wonder what the long-term effects of toe shortening surgery are – and if this procedure is really worth it. Read on if you’re searching for the answers to these questions.
What Is Long Toe?
The term “long toe” or “Morton’s toe” refers to a toe whose length significantly surprises the big toe. The long toe may be buckling or straight. A straight long toe may eventually buckle and develop into a hammertoe condition.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of Morton’s toe is pain that occurs at the tip of a long toe. The paint intensity can vary from mild and dull to sharp, and it usually worsens when a person wears high-heeled shoes or footwear that crowds the toes. Corns or calluses may develop due to excessive pressure from unsuitable footwear. Additionally, redness, irritation, and swelling may also occur.
Causes
Morton’s toe is usually a hereditary condition – and one which is pretty common with both men and women. However, make sure you know the difference between a toe that is truly excessively long and a toe that appears longer compared to much shorter adjacent toes.
At the same time, keep in mind that bunion deformity, for example, can shorten the big to make the second toe look more prominent.
How Are Long Toes Surgically Corrected?
There are some non-surgical solutions for limiting the progression of large toe conditions, such as wearing supportive shoes, using arch support, practicing physical therapy, and so on. However, if the condition becomes more severe, it can’t be a substitute for a suitable surgical procedure.
Morton’s toes can be surgically corrected with the help of two basic methods – joint resection and joint fusion. Both of these procedures involve realigning a toe by removing a part of the bone. Which one of them will be used depends on the foot condition in question. In some cases, surgeons will need to keep the bone in place with the help of a wire or an implant.
Pain Will Be Gone After the Surgery
Although a long toe condition doesn’t have to be painful at all, when the pain occurs, it can affect the person’s everyday life and limit activities in which they can participate. In addition, if not treated on time, a long toe may lead to other painful foot deformities, such as the aforementioned hammertoes. A toe-shortening surgical procedure, however, can relieve the patient from the pain and prevent a long toe condition from progressing further.
Walking Activities Won’t Be Painful
More often than not, the shoes don’t offer the necessary space for the long toe, which results in the second toe constantly being bent. The continuous pressure the shoe puts on the toe causes pain but can also result in pretty painful calluses and corns – and the more active the person is, the worse they can get. However, after undergoing the procedure, you’ll be able to wear any shoe type without the fear of pain.
You’ll Be Able to Fit Different Shoes
Having a long toe may prevent you from wearing a certain type of footwear, such as high heels or shoes with pointy toes. After the procedure (and necessary recovery time), wearing any kind of shoes should be a much more comfortable and pleasurable experience.
Go Over the Long-Term Effects of Toe Shortening Surgery With Your Foot Expert
If you wish to know more about the long-term effect of this procedure and get other valuable information about costs, risks, or the recovery process, book a free consultation at Luxe Foot Surgery. You can contact us directly over the phone or send your inquiry online. Schedule your appointment and ask all you want to know about your condition and toe-shortening procedure.
FAQ
Is Toe-Shortening Surgery Worth It?
Yes, the toe-shortening surgery is worth it since it can relieve the patient from discomfort and make the entire foot appearance more appealing.
How Long Does It Take to Heal From Toe Shortening Surgery?
The healing usually takes up to six weeks, but the exact time will depend on the method used, as well as the patient’s overall health and habits.
Can You Have Your Second Toe Shortened?
Yes, you can have your second toe shortened. In fact, when it comes to toe-shortening surgery, the procedure is usually performed on the second toe.
