Ang iyong nararamdaman¶
Ang mga deformidad sa maliliit na daliri ng paa ay nagbabago sa posisyon at paggalaw ng iyong mga daliri. Ang isa o higit pa sa iyong maliliit na daliri ay maaaring bumaluktot pababa, mapunta sa ibabaw o ilalim ng katabing daliri, o dumiin sa iyong sapatos. Ang balat sa ibabaw ng nakaumbok na buto ay maaaring kumapal at tumigas, at ang pagkiskis na iyon ay maaaring mag-iwan sa bahaging iyon na namamagâ at masakit. Sa ilang mga kaso, ang balat ay maaaring masira at maging ulcer.
Ang sakit ay karaniwang nararamdaman sa ball of the foot o sa itaas ng isang baluktot na daliri. Madalas itong lumalala kapag ang iyong mga daliri ay naiipit sa masikip o makitid na sapatos, dahil ang sapatos ay dumidiin sa buto at kumikiskis sa malambot na tisyu sa paligid nito. Ang mas maluwag na sapatos ay nag-aalis ng pressure na iyon at madalas na nagpapakalma sa pakiramdam. Ang ganitong sakit sa paa at bukung-bukong ay nagbabawas sa iyong paggalaw, at maaari itong makaapekto sa iyong mood pati na rin sa iyong katawan.
Ang mga pang-araw-araw na gawain na nagbibigay ng load sa harap ng paa ay nagiging mas mahirap. Ang paglalakad papunta sa mga tindahan, pagtayo habang nagluluto, pag-akyat sa hagdan, o pagtatapos ng shift habang nakatayo ay maaaring magpasidhi ng sakit. Maaaring mapansin mo ang iyong sarili na binabago ang paraan ng paglalakad upang maiwasan ang paglalagay ng bigat sa mga masakit na daliri.
Ang ilang mga tao na may mga problemang ito sa daliri ay mayroon ding mga pagbabago sa mas mataas na bahagi ng paa, kung saan ang arch ay hindi karaniwang mataas o ang sakong ay wala sa linya. Kung bahagi ito ng iyong kondisyon, maaari nitong maapektuhan kung paano dinadala ng iyong buong paa ang iyong bigat.
Kung ikaw ay may rheumatoid arthritis, ang harap ng iyong paa ay maaari ring maapektuhan, kung saan ang mga daliri ay nawawala sa hugis kasabay ng mga pagbabago sa iyong hinlalaki sa paa.
Ano ang aktwal na nangyayari¶
Ang iyong mga daliri sa paa ay pinapanatiling tuwid ng balanse sa pagitan ng dalawang pangkat ng mga kalamnan. Ang isang pangkat ay tumatakbo sa itaas ng paa at hinihila ang mga daliri pataas. Ang isa pang pangkat ay tumatakbo sa talampakan at hinihila ang mga ito pababa. Kapag nawala ang balanseng iyon, ang mga kasukasuan sa isang daliri ay hindi na gumagana nang magkasama. Ang daliri ay bumabaluktot pababa sa isang kasukasuan habang bumabaluktot pataas sa isa pa, na siyang lumilikha ng mga nakulot na hugis na iyong nakikita at nararamdaman.
Ang problema ay madalas na nagsisimula sa isang maliit na pad ng tissue sa ilalim ng daliri, kung saan ito nakikipag-ugnay sa ball of the foot. Isipin ito bilang isang gasket na nagsasara at nagpapatatag sa kasukasuan. Kapag ang gasket na iyon ay napudpod o napunit, nawawala ang anchor ng daliri. Ang tendon sa itaas ang nananalo sa tug-of-war, ang base ng daliri ay tumataas, at ang mga gitnang kasukasuan ay bumabaluktot pababa. Habang nakukulot ang daliri, itinutulak nito ang dulo ng mahabang buto ng paa pababa sa talampakan. Ang fat pad na karaniwang nagsisilbing cushion sa bahaging iyon ay naitutulak pasulong palabas ng pwesto, kaya naiwan kang nakatayo sa buto na may mas kaunting padding. Iyan ang dahilan kung bakit sumasakit ang ball of your foot, at kung bakit maaaring mabuo rito ang matitigas na balat at mga ulcer.
May papel din na ginagampanan ang mga sapatos. Ang masisikip o makikitid na sapatos ay pumipiga sa mga daliri at pinapanatili ang pagkiskis na nagpapamaga sa balat sa ibabaw ng bump. Ang ilang tao ay ipinanganak na may hugis ng paa na madaling magkaroon nito, at ang mga kondisyong nakakaapekto sa mga nerve o kalamnan ay maaari ring maging sanhi nito. Ang high arch, halimbawa, ay nagmumula sa muscle imbalance sa isang lumalaking paa, at binabago nito kung paano dinadala ng iyong buong paa ang iyong timbang.
Kung ang iyong hinlalaki sa paa ay gumagalaw din patagilid, ang parehong paliwanag ay naaangkop. Ang mga tissue na humahawak dito upang manatiling tuwid ay unti-unting bumibigay, ang daliri ay umiikot at dumudulas patungo sa mas maliliit na daliri, at ang mas maliliit na daliri ay maaaring bumaluktot dahil sa pagsisikip.
Ano ang maaari naming gawin tungkol dito¶
Ang mga weight-bearing X-ray ang karaniwang panimulang punto, na kinukuha habang ikaw ay nakatayo, at maaari itong kasama ang mga close-up view ng mga daliri sa paa. Maaaring gumamit ng MRI scan kapag kailangan namin ng mas malinaw na larawan ng mga soft tissue sa paligid ng joint.
Para sa karamihan ng mga toe deformity, nagsisimula kami sa non-operative care. Ang pangunahing paraan ay ang pagpapalit ng iyong footwear: ang mga sapatos na may mataas at maluwag na toe box ay nag-aalis ng pressure sa nakabaluktot na daliri. Ang mga foam o silicone gel toe sleeve at crest pad ay maaaring magsilbing cushion sa mga masasakit na bahagi. Ang padding sa ilalim ng ball of the foot, kabilang ang mga metatarsal pad insert, ay maaaring magpakalat ng load palayo sa masakit na bahagi. Para sa bunionette, ang bukol sa labas ng iyong maliit na daliri sa paa, maaari rin naming kayurin ang tumigas na callus. Kung ikaw ay may flat foot din, ang insole o custom orthotic ay maaaring makatulong. Ang physiotherapy at ang mga simpleng hakbang na ito ay hindi kayang ituwid ang mismong daliri, ngunit maaari nilang pagaanin ang mga sintomas. Karaniwan naming hinihiling na bigyan muna ito ng sapat na pagsubok bago isaalang-alang ang surgery.
Ang mga steroid injection, na kung minsan ay tinatawag na cortisone, ay may napakalimitadong gamit dito. Para sa claw toe partikular na, maaari nitong pahinain ang mga ligament na humahawak sa daliri upang manatiling steady, at maaaring lumala ang deformity. Ginagamit namin ang mga ito nang madalang, kung gagamitin man.
Ang surgery ay isinasaalang-alang kapag ang non-operative care ay hindi nagbigay sa iyo ng sapat na ginhawa, o kapag ang daliri ay nanigas na sa isang fixed position. Ang operasyon ay ini-aadjust base sa iyong daliri at kung aling mga joint ang apektado. Maaaring kabilang dito ang pagtutuwid ng daliri sa pamamagitan ng pag-release ng mga tight soft tissue, pagtanggal ng maliit na piraso ng buto mula sa isang nakabaluktot na joint, o pagpapaikli ng isang mahabang buto sa paa upang muling mabalanse ang harap ng paa. Ang mga tendon ay maaaring i-reroute o pahabain upang maibalik ang pull balance na nagpapanatiling flat sa daliri. Ang damaged pad sa base ng daliri ay maaaring kumpunihin. Kung saan ang joint ay malubhang gasgas o worn, maaari itong i-fuse upang ang daliri ay manatiling tuwid at stable. Ang temporary wire fixation ay madalas na ginagamit upang panatilihing nasa lugar ang lahat habang ito ay gumagaling, at ang mga mas bagong permanent implant ay isang alternatibo sa ilang mga kaso. Pag-uusapan namin kung aling approach ang angkop sa iyong paa, at magdedesisyon tayo nang magkasama.
Ano ang dapat asahan¶
Sa pamamagitan ng mas maluluwang na sapatos, padding, at iba pang simpleng mga hakbang, ang pananakit sa ball of your foot at sa ibabaw ng nakabaluktot na daliri ng paa ay madalas na humuhupa. Ang mga hakbang na ito ay hindi makakapagtuwid ng daliri na nabago na ang hugis. Kung ang daliri ay tumigas na sa isang fixed position, karaniwan itong mananatiling ganoon nang walang operasyon.
Kung ang operasyon ang tamang landas para sa iyo, ang layunin ay isang mas tuwid at mas komportableng daliri ng paa at isang harapang bahagi ng paa na mas pantay na pumapasan ng iyong timbang. Ang paggaling ay unti-unti. Kakailanganin mo ng oras para gumaling at humupa ang daliri bago ito muling maramdaman bilang bahagi ng iyong paa. Ang ilang mga approach ay idinisenyo upang hayaan kang igalaw ang daliri nang maaga, na nagpapababa ng pagkakataon na tumigas ang daliri. Ang iba naman ay kinakasangkutan ng mas malaking bahagi ng paa at mas matagal bago humupa.
Bawat operasyon ay may dalang panganib. Isang bihirang ngunit agarang panganib pagkatapos ng operasyon sa daliri ng paa ay ang pagbaba ng supply ng dugo sa daliri. Ito ay mas madalas makita sa mga taong naninigarilyo o sa mga sumasailalim sa pagtutuwid ng daliri sa ikalawang pagkakataon. Tatalakayin ng iyong surgeon ang mga panganib na naaangkop sa iyong operasyon.
Ang outlook ay nakadepende sa iyong paa at sa piniling operasyon. Ang ilang mga procedure ay may track record ng kakaunting komplikasyon, habang ang iba, partikular ang mga pinagsasama ang ilang mga hakbang sa mas maliliit na daliri ng paa, ay may tendensiyang magkaroon ng mas maraming komplikasyon, mas masamang resulta, at mas matagal na paggaling kaysa sa mas simpleng bersyon ng parehong operasyon. Titimbangin ng iyong surgeon kung aling approach ang nagbibigay sa iyong daliri ng pinakamahusay na pagkakataon para sa isang magandang resulta at maayos na paggaling.
Kailan dapat magpatingin¶
Magpatingin sa iyong GP kung ang isang masakit na bahagi sa ibabaw ng nakabaluktot na daliri ng paa o sa ball of your foot ay hindi gumagaling pagkatapos ng ilang linggo ng pagsuot ng mas maluwag na sapatos, o kung ang matigas na balat doon ay nagiging ulcer. Humingi ng pagsusuri ng isang espesyalista kung ang sakit ay pumipigil sa iyong paglalakad, pagtatrabaho, o pagtulog, o kung ang iyong mga daliri ng paa ay nakabaluktot nang husto na hindi na sila nakalapat nang patag sa sapatos. Banggitin din ang anumang pagbabago sa hugis ng iyong paa sa mas mataas na bahagi, gaya ng napakataas na arch o sakong na wala sa linya, dahil maaari nitong maapektuhan ang buong paa at maaaring kailanganin din ng atensyon.
Evidence & references
This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.
Anatomy & Pathophysiology¶
Musculotendinous Anatomy¶
- The extensor digitorum longus muscle originates from the tibia and fibula and inserts into the middle and distal phalanges of the lesser toes [2].
- The flexor digitorum longus muscle originates from the tibia and inserts into the distal lesser phalanges [2].
- The extensor digitorum longus is innervated by the deep peroneal nerve [2].
- The flexor digitorum longus is innervated by the tibial nerve [2].
- The extensor digitorum longus acts to dorsiflex the toes [2].
- The flexor digitorum longus acts to plantar flex the lesser toes [2].
- The extensor digitorum brevis is the only dorsal intrinsic muscle of the foot [15].
- The extensor digitorum brevis is innervated by the lateral terminal branch of the deep peroneal nerve [15].
- Lumbrical muscles are located plantar to the transverse metatarsal ligament [15].
- Interosseous tendons are located dorsal to the transverse metatarsal ligament [15].
Neurovascular Anatomy¶
- The dorsalis pedis artery is a continuation of the anterior tibial artery that passes deep under the inferior extensor retinaculum [9].
- As the dorsalis pedis artery passes anterior to the ankle joint, it lies between the tendons of the extensor hallucis longus medially and the extensor digitorum longus laterally [9].
- The deep peroneal nerve lies immediately lateral to the dorsalis pedis artery [9].
- The arcuate artery arises from the dorsalis pedis artery in the region of the bases of the metatarsals and passes laterally [9].
- The second, third, and fourth dorsal metatarsal arteries arise from the arcuate artery and descend to the dorsal surfaces of the respective dorsal interosseous muscles [9].
- The first dorsal metatarsal artery is the continuation of the dorsalis pedis artery [9].
- The first dorsal metatarsal artery runs distally, usually on the dorsal surface of the first dorsal interosseous muscle [9].
- The first dorsal metatarsal artery supplies branches to the dorsal skin, the first and second metatarsals, and the interosseous muscles [9].
- Near the first web space between the first and second toes, the first dorsal metatarsal artery divides into at least two branches [9].
- One branch of the first dorsal metatarsal artery passes deep to the tendon of the extensor hallucis longus to supply the medial side of the great toe [9].
- The other branch of the first dorsal metatarsal artery divides to supply the adjacent sides of the great and second toes [9].
- The deep plantar, or communicating, artery leaves the dorsalis pedis at the base of the first metatarsal [9].
- The deep plantar artery passes toward the plantar surface of the foot between the heads of the first dorsal interosseous muscle [9].
- The deep plantar artery communicates with the lateral plantar artery to complete the plantar arterial arch [9].
- The deep plantar artery supplies a branch to the medial side of the great toe [9].
- The first plantar metatarsal artery is the continuation of the deep plantar artery [9].
- The first plantar metatarsal artery passes distally in the first interosseous space and divides to supply the adjacent sides of the great and second toes from the plantar side [9].
- In 78% to 88% of feet, the first dorsal metatarsal artery lies superficial to or just within the substance of the first dorsal interosseous muscle [9].
- In 12% to 22% of feet, the first dorsal metatarsal artery lies plantar to the first metatarsal [9].
- The venous drainage from the dorsum of the toes and foot flows into the dorsal venous arches, feeding the greater and lesser saphenous systems [9].
- Additional venous drainage from the dorsum of the foot occurs through the veins accompanying the dorsalis pedis artery [9].
- The dorsal surfaces of the toes and foot receive sensory innervation through the superficial peroneal nerve branches [9].
- The first web space is innervated by the deep peroneal nerve [9].
- The plantar surface of the foot is innervated by the digital branches of the medial plantar nerve [9].
Pathophysiology of Lesser Toe Deformities¶
- Deformities of the lesser toes result from an imbalance between the intrinsic and extrinsic musculotendinous units of the toes [5].
- With hyperextension at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, the strong flexors overpower the intrinsic extensors of the interphalangeal (IP) joints [5].
- The overpowering of intrinsic extensors by strong flexors results in flexion deformities at the IP joints and extension deformities at the MTP joints [5].
- Lesser MTP deformity starts with dysfunction of the plantar plate [5].
- Mallet toe is defined as a hyperflexion deformity at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint [5].
- Hammer toe is defined as a flexion deformity at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint and an extension deformity at the MTP and DIP joints [5].
- Claw toe is defined as an extension deformity at the MTP joint combined with hyperflexion at the PIP and DIP joints [5].
- The difference between a hammer toe and a claw toe is the positioning of the DIP joint [5].
- As claw toe develops, flexor tendons pull the IP joints into flexion and the MTP joint into extension [5].
- The pulling of the MTP joint into extension depresses the metatarsal head and pulls the plantar fat pad distally [5].
- Depression of the metatarsal head and distal migration of the plantar fat pad result in metatarsalgia, callus, or ulcer formation [5].
- The primary deficiency at the MTP joint level in claw toe is dysfunction or tearing of the plantar plate [5].
- The plantar plate usually holds the base of the phalanx in alignment with the metatarsal head [5].
- Bunionette deformity, or tailor’s bunion, is defined as a prominence of the lateral aspect of the fifth metatarsal head [5].
- Bunionette deformity causes pain over the lateral or plantar aspect of the MTP joint, particularly with compressive shoewear [3].
- Three distinct types of bunionette deformity are described based on the anatomic location of the deformity along the fifth metatarsal [3].
- Type I bunionette deformity is distinguished by the presence of an enlarged fifth metatarsal head [3].
- Type II bunionette deformity demonstrates lateral bowing of the fifth metatarsal diaphysis [3].
- Type III bunionette deformity demonstrates an abnormally widened fourth–fifth metatarsal angle [3].
- The normal fourth–fifth metatarsal angle is less than 8 degrees [3].
- Bunionette deformity in conjunction with ipsilateral hallux valgus and metatarsus primus varus is termed splayfoot [3].
- Cavus foot is a foot with an abnormally high arch [1].
- Cavus foot frequently accompanies hindfoot varus deformity, known as cavovarus foot [1].
- Cavovarus foot may be associated with clawing of the toes and demonstrable weakness of ankle or foot muscles [1].
- Calluses beneath the metatarsal heads and heel skin are common in cavus foot [1].
- The cause of cavus foot is usually muscle imbalance in a growing foot [1].
- Cavus is rarely found in early childhood but is fairly frequent after 8–10 years of age [1].
- Intrinsic muscle weakness is a major cause of cavus foot [1].
- Weakness of the peroneal or anterior tibialis muscles is also implicated in the cause of cavus foot [1].
- Cavus foot is rarely found in the absence of an underlying neuromuscular condition [1].
- Cavus foot is a marker for neuromuscular disease [1].
- In cavus foot, the forefoot is severely plantar flexed on the hindfoot, requiring marked ankle dorsiflexion to compensate [1].
- When cavus becomes too severe, ankle dorsiflexion is blocked, leading to anterior ankle impingement and pain [1].
- The inability to dorsiflex further compromises forefoot clearance, eventually allowing only the metatarsals to contact the floor [1].
- This condition can be misinterpreted as ankle plantarflexion contracture, leading to unnecessary heel cord release [1].
- Hallux valgus is defined as lateral deviation of the great toe with medial deviation of the first metatarsal [7].
- The pathophysiology of hallux valgus is likely multifactorial [7].
- Intrinsic factors contributing to hallux valgus include genetic predisposition, ligamentous laxity, and predisposing anatomy such as a convex metatarsal head or pes planus [7].
- Extrinsic factors contributing to hallux valgus include certain types of shoewear, such as narrow toe boxes and high heels [7].
- The pathoanatomy of hallux valgus involves medial capsular attenuation [7].
- In hallux valgus, the proximal phalanx drifts laterally [7].
- Lateral drift of the proximal phalanx leads to plantar-lateral migration of the abductor hallucis [7].
- Plantar-lateral migration of the abductor hallucis causes the proximal phalangeal unit to plantar flex and pronate the hallux [7].
- The pronation of the hallux is amplified by the proximal phalangeal attachment of the adductor hallucis [7].
- Lateral deviation of the extensor hallucis longus and flexor hallucis longus causes a muscular imbalance and deforming force for valgus progression and pronation of the great toe [7].
- In hallux valgus, the first metatarsal head moves medially off the sesamoids, increasing the intermetatarsal angle [7].
- Pronation in hallux valgus leads to rounding of the lateral metatarsal head, which should have a flat contour with no rotational deformity [7].
- Secondary contracture occurs in the lateral capsule, adductor hallucis, and lateral metatarsal-sesamoid and intermetatarsal ligaments in hallux valgus [7].
- The pathoanatomy of hallux valgus involves gradual failure of the medial supportive structures, including the medial collateral ligament and tibial sesamoid, resulting in a varus position of the first metatarsal [28].
- Valgus deviation at the MTP joint of the proximal phalanx subsequently develops as hallux valgus progresses [28].
- As hallux valgus progresses, the alignment of the flexor and extensor hallucis longus tendons shifts laterally relative to the MTP joint, further exacerbating the deformity [28].
- First metatarsal varus results in a prominent first metatarsal head medially, which is the bump or "bunion" reported by the patient [28].
- Secondary pathology and deformity can develop in the lesser toes, such as hammertoes and claw toes, in patients with hallux valgus [28].
- The etiology of hallux valgus is a combination of intrinsic factors such as genetic predisposition or a hypermobile first tarsometatarsal joint, and extrinsic factors predominantly related to high-heeled shoes with a narrow toe box [28].
- Other predisposing factors for hallux valgus include rheumatoid or inflammatory arthritis, generalized ligamentous laxity, and dysmorphism of the first metatarsal [28].
- Hallux valgus deformity is usually progressive, although the rate and degree of progression is often nonlinear [28].
- Hallux valgus is most commonly seen in female patients in their fourth or fifth decades of life [28].
- Adolescent bunion is frequently hereditary and usually seen in early adolescence [32].
- Adolescent bunion is almost always found in conjunction with a wide forefoot caused by varus (medial deviation) of the first metatarsal shaft, known as metatarsus primus varus [32].
- The wide forefoot in adolescent bunion allows severe lateral deviation of the great toe, causing the prominent base of the great toe to rub against the inside of the shoe and create a painful bunion [32].
- Many adolescent bunions are progressive and require surgical management [32].
- Surgery for adolescent bunion must address each aspect of the deformity, including trimming the bunion, correcting the varus angulation of the first metatarsal by osteotomy, and centralizing and balancing the hallux valgus by lengthening the adductor hallucis muscle [32].
- There is a fairly high incidence of recurrence of adolescent bunion deformity following surgery [32].
Compartment Anatomy¶
- Most authorities previously believed there were four compartments in the foot: medial, lateral, central, and interosseous [14].
- The medial compartment lies on the plantar surface of the hallux [14].
- The lateral compartment is on the plantar surface of the fifth metatarsal [14].
- The central compartment lies on the plantar surface of the foot [14].
- The interosseous compartment lies dorsal to the others between the metatarsals [14].
- The medial compartment contains the intrinsic muscles of the great toe and flexor digiti minimi [14].
- The lateral compartment contains the abductor digiti minimi [14].
- The superficial central compartment contains the flexor digitorum brevis [14].
- The deep (calcaneal) central compartment contains the quadratus plantae [14].
- The adductor hallucis compartment contains the adductor hallucis [14].
- The interosseous compartments contain the interosseous muscles and digital nerves [14].
- Manoli and Weber challenged the concept of four compartments using cadaver infusion techniques, proposing nine compartments in the foot [14].
- The nine-compartment model includes two central compartments: one superficial containing flexor digitorum brevis, and one deep (calcaneal) containing quadratus plantae [14].
- The deep calcaneal compartment communicates with the deep posterior compartment of the leg [14].
- Each of the four interosseous muscles and the adductor hallucis lies in separate compartments in the nine-compartment model [14].
- The barrier between the superficial and calcaneal compartments becomes incompetent at a pressure of 10 mm Hg [14].
- A pressure of 10 mm Hg is much lower than that required to produce an acute compartment syndrome [14].
Tarsal Tunnel Anatomy¶
- The tarsal tunnel is a fibroosseous tunnel within the posteromedial ankle and hindfoot [6].
- The tibial nerve, posterior tibial artery, accompanying veins, posterior tibial tendon, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus tendons pass into the foot through the tarsal tunnel [6].
- The flexor retinaculum acts as the roof of the tarsal tunnel and extends from the medial malleolus to the medial side of the calcaneal tuberosity [6].
- The medial distal tibia, talus, and calcaneus make up the floor of the tarsal tunnel [6].
- Septa that separate the posterior tibial, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus tendons project from the fibrous roof to the calcaneus [6].
- Between the flexor digitorum longus and flexor hallucis longus tendons, the tibial nerve, posterior tibial artery, and accompanying veins pass to enter the foot [6].
- Before reaching the foot, the tibial nerve divides into three terminal branches: the medial calcaneal nerve, lateral plantar nerve, and medial plantar nerve [6].
- Typically, the tibial nerve branches within the tunnel just proximal and deep to the upper edge of the abductor hallucis muscle [6].
- The medial calcaneal nerve branches first, traveling posteriorly to the subcutaneous tissue [6].
- The first branch of the lateral plantar nerve passes under the abductor, over the medial fascia of the quadrates plantae, deep to the plantar fascia, and under the heel to the flexor digitorum brevis [6].
- The first branch of the lateral plantar nerve sends a sensory branch to the central heel skin and terminates in the abductor digiti quinti [6].
- Anterior to its first branch, the lateral plantar nerve passes deep to the abductor fascia and plantar fascia and over the quadrates plantae [6].
- The lateral plantar nerve continues distally under the flexor digitorum brevis, terminating in the fourth web space and supplying a branch to the third web space [6].
- The lateral plantar nerve supplies motor branches to the intrinsic muscles [6].
- The medial plantar nerve innervates the abductor and continues under the abductor and the plantar fascia to form the common digital nerves [6].
- The common digital nerves terminate to the first, second, and third web spaces and provide motor branches to the interossei and lumbricals [6].
- Historically, tarsal tunnel syndrome referred to tibial nerve entrapment beneath the flexor retinaculum [6].
- Distal tarsal tunnel syndrome involves entrapment of the distal tibial nerve branches as they enter the foot [6].
- Sources of constriction beneath and adjacent to the tarsal tunnel include bone fragments, tenosynovitis, ganglia, soft-tissue encroachment in inflammatory arthritis, varicosities, neural tumors, perineural fibrosis, tarsal coalition, and calcaneal osteotomies [6].
- A fixed valg
Investigations¶
General Imaging Principles¶
- Weight-bearing anteroposterior, lateral, and oblique views of the foot are included in the radiographic evaluation for metatarsalgia [30].
- The skyline view of the metatarsal heads, obtained with the metatarsophalangeal joints in dorsiflexion, is helpful to evaluate overall alignment and demonstrate the height of the metatarsal heads [30].
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be useful in the diagnosis of metatarsalgia to distinguish among a neuroma, cyst, bursa, or synovitis [30].
- MRI is a fundamental tool in the workup of a patient with a soft-tissue or bone tumor in the foot [34].
- Focused MRI imaging of the metatarsophalangeal joints can detect sesamoid pathology and plantar plate injuries [34].
- MRI is a valuable imaging modality in the evaluation of patients with suspected bone or soft-tissue infection, detecting osteomyelitis well before radiographic abnormalities are visible [34].
- In neuropathic patients, the specificity of MR signal abnormalities for osteomyelitis is reduced [34].
- Normal MRI marrow signal confidently excludes osteomyelitis in the foot [34].
- The addition of contrast-enhanced MRI sequences is helpful in defining nonenhancing fluid collections, abscesses, and devascularized or gangrenous tissue [34].
- Computed tomography (CT) scans are important in assessing fractures and for congenital bony coalitions [29].
- Radio-isotope scanning is excellent for localizing areas of abnormal blood flow or bone remodelling activity, which suggest the presence of covert infection [29].
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound are used to demonstrate soft-tissue problems, such as tendon and ligament injuries, and can diagnose joint effusions and bone infections [29].
- Stress X-rays complement clinical tests for ankle stability and can be carried out under general anaesthesia if stress manoeuvres are painful [29].
Specific Pathology Imaging¶
- Ultrasonography has been reported to be 85% accurate in diagnosing interdigital neuroma [25].
- MRI may be useful for diagnosing interdigital neuroma, and the administration of contrast medium may increase its accuracy [25].
- Injection of the involved web space with local anesthetic that results in relief of neuritic symptoms is diagnostic of interdigital neuroma [25].
- Injections performed under ultrasound guidance for interdigital neuroma have higher short-term relief compared with blind injections [25].
- Weight-bearing radiographs are useful for excluding a stress fracture of the metatarsal neck in the evaluation of interdigital neuroma [25].
- Interdigital or Morton neuroma is most frequently found in the distal third metatarsal interspace on MRI [34].
- Unlike most other tumors, interdigital neuroma lacks increased signal on T2-weighted MRI sequences [34].
- Plantar fibroma or plantar fibromatosis is usually confirmed by the presence of a signal-poor mass arising from the plantar fascia on MRI [34].
Neuromuscular and Deformity Workup¶
- Diagnosis of cavus foot requires a thorough search for the underlying cause and may require neurologic consultation, spinal MRI, and electromyographic (EMG) studies [1].
- A neurologic examination and a family history are essential in the evaluation of pes cavus [36].
- MRI of the spine is indicated with unilateral involvement in pes cavus [36].
- Hindfoot flexibility in pes cavus is assessed by placing a 1-inch block under the lateral border of the foot (Coleman block test) [36].
- Weight-bearing radiographs are required for the evaluation of pes cavus [36].
- An increased Meary angle, where the long axis of the talus intersects the long axis of the first metatarsal dorsally on the lateral view, is a radiographic finding in pes cavus [36].
- The normal value for the Meary angle is 0° to 5° [36].
- An increased calcaneal pitch, defined as the intersection of a line running along the undersurface of the calcaneus and the floor, is a radiographic finding in pes cavus [36].
- A calcaneal pitch greater than 30° indicates a calcaneocavus foot [36].
Treatment¶
Non-Operative¶
- Shoewear modification, strategic padding, and shaving of the symptomatic callus are usually effective for bunionette deformity [3].
- With plantar callus or associated pes planus, a metatarsal pad or custom orthotic device should be considered for bunionette deformity [3].
- Nonsurgical treatment for mallet toe includes wearing shoes with high toe boxes and using foam or silicone gel toe sleeves or crest pads [5].
- Nonsurgical treatment for hammer toe includes wearing shoes with high toe boxes and using foam or silicone gel toe sleeves [5].
- Initial nonsurgical treatment for claw toe is aimed at shoe-wear modification, with adequate plantar padding (including metatarsal pad inserts) and a shoe with a high toe box [5].
- Crest pads may be used for the nonsurgical management of claw toe [5].
- Steroid injections have very limited indications for claw toe and should be used judiciously [5].
- Steroid injections for claw toe frequently result in weakening of the collateral ligaments and plantar plate resulting in progression and worsening of the deformity [5].
Operative: Bunionette¶
- Lateral metatarsal head condylectomy is the surgical treatment for type I bunionette deformity [3].
- Distal fifth metatarsal osteotomy (i.e., chevron) is the surgical treatment for type II bunionette deformity [3].
- Oblique diaphyseal osteotomy is the surgical treatment for type III bunionette deformity [3].
- Metatarsal head resection should be considered for salvage in bunionette deformity [3].
- Proximal osteotomy should be avoided for bunionette deformity owing to the tenuous blood supply at the proximal metadiaphyseal junction of the fifth metatarsal [3].
Operative: Mallet Toe¶
- A flexible mallet toe deformity can be corrected with a percutaneous release of the FDL tendon at its insertion into the base of the distal phalanx [5].
- In fixed mallet toe deformity, surgical correction involves resection of the distal condyles of the middle phalanx and repair of the extensor tendon combined with temporary wire fixation [5].
- Recurrent MTP joint instability after surgical correction of mallet toe is usually a result of persistent plantar plate dysfunction [5].
Operative: Hammer Toe¶
- Surgery for hammer toe is indicated when nonsurgical treatment does not provide adequate relief of symptoms [5].
- In the absence of MTP pathology, surgical correction of hammer toes involves resection of the distal condyles of the proximal phalanx of the toe [5].
- Resection for hammer toe may be combined with an FDL tenotomy, performed either via the dorsal incision used for the condylar resection or through a plantar percutaneous release [5].
- The toe should be pinned with temporary wire fixation during hammer toe correction [5].
- Newer permanent implants are available to eliminate the need for K-wire fixation in hammer toe surgery [5].
- Numerous studies have shown only minimal improvement in satisfaction without improvement in clinical outcomes, but at a significantly higher cost for the implants used in hammer toe surgery [5].
- If the MTP joint is involved in hammer toe deformity, correction is the same as that for claw toe deformity [5].
Operative: Claw Toe¶
- The MTP imbalance in claw toe is addressed with an extensor tendon Z-plasty lengthening and MTP capsular release [5].
- Extensor tendon Z-plasty lengthening and MTP capsular release may be combined with a distal oblique metatarsal shortening osteotomy when associated with a long second metatarsal [5].
- Extensor tendon Z-plasty lengthening and MTP capsular release may be combined with a FDL-to-EDL (Girdlestone-Taylor) tendon transfer to achieve balance of the affected MTP joint [5].
- Newer procedures for claw toe include repairing the plantar plate at the proximal phalanx plantar insertion [5].
- In plantar plate repair for claw toe, the plantar plate is captured with a nonabsorbable suture using a suture passer system [5].
- In plantar plate repair for claw toe, the suture is passed through drill holes in the base of the proximal phalanx and tied dorsally with the toe positioned in slight plantar flexion [5].
- When there is a crossover component to claw toe deformity, the damaged collateral ligament is repaired with nonabsorbable suture [5].
- The hammer toe and mallet toe components of claw toe deformity are corrected via a proximal phalangeal distal condylar resection and FDL tenotomy [5].
- A wire is placed across the DIP, PIP, and MTP joints for temporary stabilization during claw toe correction [5].
- Persistent plantar plate dysfunction may result in recurrence of claw toe deformity [5].
Operative: Axial Plane Deformity¶
- In the mildest cases of varus or valgus deformity, simple release of the contracted collateral ligament may be all that is necessary [37].
- Imbrication of the opposite side may provide an additional measure of correction for mild varus or valgus deformity [37].
- Satisfactory results have been reported with the use of the extensor digitorum brevis tendon rerouted underneath the transverse metatarsal ligament for varus deformity [37].
- A competent intermetatarsal ligament is a prerequisite for the extensor digitorum brevis tendon rerouting procedure [37].
- Ellis et al. described an extensor digitorum brevis reconstructive technique combined with a medial collateral ligament and partial plantar plate release for correction of multiplanar deformity of the second metatarsophalangeal joint [37].
- A shortening osteotomy of the metatarsal may be necessary to correct the deformity and instability of the metatarsophalangeal joint [37].
- A shortening osteotomy of the metatarsal will prevent the use of the extensor digitorum brevis transfer [37].
- Klinge et al. described a modification of the Weil osteotomy to address varus or valgus angulation of the toe not corrected with simple ligament balancing [37].
- The modified Weil osteotomy is considered particularly successful and powerful in procedures involving varus or valgus angulation of the toe not corrected with simple ligament balancing [37].
- Joseph et al. reported a statistically significant reduction in pain, improvement in alignment, and full return to unrestricted weight-bearing activities in 31 patients with metatarsophalangeal joint fusions [37].
- Complications of metatarsophalangeal joint fusions reported by Joseph et al. included 13% with nonunions, 6% with implant breakage, and 3% with soft-tissue infection [37].
References¶
[1] A Lange Medical Book Current Diagnosis Treatment In Orthopedics Fifth Edition. 10Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery > 4. Cavus Foot.
[2] Aaos Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review 3. Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Foot and Ankle > I. Anatomy.
[3] Miller S Review Of Orthopaedics. SECTION 16 PATELLAR TRACKING IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY > BUNIONETTE DEFORMITY (TAILOR'S BUNION).
[5] Aaos Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review 3. Forefoot Disorders > IV. Deformities of the Lesser Toes.
[6] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. COMBINED HAMMER TOE AND MALLET TOE DEFORMITY WITH ASSOCIATED DOUBLE CORNS > TARSAL TUNNEL SYNDROME.
[7] Miller S Review Of Orthopaedics. SECTION 16 PATELLAR TRACKING IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY > ADULT HALLUX VALGUS.
[9] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. RESULTS OF SUTURE OF THE SCIATIC NERVE > NEUROVASCULAR ANATOMY.
[14] Rockwood And Green S Fractures In Adults. Effect of Blast on the Musculoskeletal System > Foot.
[15] Miller S Review Of Orthopaedics. SECTION 16 PATELLAR TRACKING IN TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY > 2. Arthrology > 3. Muscles.
[25] Aaos Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review 3. Neurologic Disorders of the Foot and Ankle > II. Interdigital Neuroma.
[28] Orthopaedic Knowledge Update 13 Ebook Without Multimedia. Foot and Ankle Reconstruction > Hallux Valgus.
[29] Apley And Solomon S Concise System Of Orthopaedics And Trauma. CONGENITAL ABNORMALITIES.
[30] A Lange Medical Book Current Diagnosis Treatment In Orthopedics Fifth Edition. 8Foot and Ankle Surgery > METATARSALGIA.
[32] A Lange Medical Book Current Diagnosis Treatment In Orthopedics Fifth Edition. 10Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery > 9. Adolescent Bunions (Hallux Valgus).
[34] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. OTHER DISORDERS OF FOOT AND ANKLE.
[36] Aaos Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review 3. Pediatric Foot Conditions > Pes Cavus.
[37] Campbell S Operative Orthopaedics 4 Volume Set. PERCUTANEOUS DISTAL LESSER TOE OSTEOTOMY FOR GRADE 0-I METATARSOPHALANGEAL JOINT INSTABILITY > AXIAL PLANE DEFORMITY OF THE METATARSOPHALANGEAL JOINT.
