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Dị dạng các ngón chân nhỏ

Updated Sep 2026
Illustration: foot

Trang này được dịch bằng máy và chưa được bác sĩ kiểm tra. Bản tiếng Anh là bản chính thức.

Những cảm giác bạn đang trải qua

Các dị dạng ở các ngón chân nhỏ làm thay đổi tư thế và cách vận động của chúng. Một hoặc nhiều ngón chân nhỏ có thể cong xuống, nằm chồng lên hoặc dưới ngón chân bên cạnh, hoặc tì ép vào giày. Lớp da phủ lên chỗ lồi xương có thể dày lên và cứng lại; sự cọ xát này gây viêm và đau ở vùng đó. Trong một số trường hợp, da bị tổn thương dẫn đến loét.

Cơn đau thường xuất hiện ở phần đệm trước lòng bàn chân hoặc phía trên ngón chân bị cong. Cơn đau thường bùng lên khi các ngón chân bị bó chặt trong giày chật hoặc hẹp, vì giày gây áp lực lên xương và cọ xát vào mô mềm xung quanh. Việc mang giày rộng hơn sẽ giảm bớt áp lực này và thường giúp tình trạng thuyên giảm. Những cơn đau ở bàn chân và mắt cá chân như vậy khiến bạn ít vận động hơn; chúng có thể làm bạn mệt mỏi cả về tinh thần lẫn thể chất.

Các hoạt động hàng ngày đòi hỏi phải chịu lực ở phía trước bàn chân trở nên khó khăn hơn. Việc đi bộ ra cửa hàng, đứng nấu ăn, leo cầu thang, hoặc đứng làm việc suốt một ca đều có thể làm cơn đau trầm trọng thêm. Bạn có thể phải thay đổi cách đi bộ để tránh đặt trọng lượng lên những ngón chân đau.

Một số người gặp vấn đề về ngón chân còn có những thay đổi ở phía trên của bàn chân, nơi vòm bàn chân cao bất thường hoặc gót chân không nằm đúng vị trí. Nếu đây là tình trạng của bạn, nó có thể ảnh hưởng đến cách toàn bộ bàn chân chịu trọng lượng cơ thể.

Nếu bạn mắc bệnh viêm khớp dạng thấp, vùng phía trước bàn chân cũng có thể bị ảnh hưởng: các ngón chân dần mất hình dạng bình thường, kèm theo những thay đổi ở ngón chân cái.

Chuyện gì đang thực sự xảy ra

Các ngón chân của bạn được giữ thẳng nhờ sự cân bằng giữa hai nhóm cơ. Nhóm cơ thứ nhất chạy dọc phía trên bàn chân và kéo các ngón chân lên trên; nhóm cơ thứ hai chạy dọc lòng bàn chân và kéo chúng xuống dưới. Khi sự cân bằng này bị phá vỡ, các khớp ngón chân không còn hoạt động đồng bộ nữa. Ngón chân sẽ gập xuống ở một khớp trong khi gập lên ở khớp khác; điều này tạo ra hình dạng cong mà bạn có thể nhìn thấy và cảm nhận được.

Vấn đề thường bắt đầu từ một mảng mô nhỏ nằm phía dưới ngón chân, nơi tiếp giáp với phần đệm trước lòng bàn chân. Hãy hình dung đó như một miếng gioăng giúp bịt kín và ổn định khớp. Khi miếng gioăng này bị mòn hoặc rách, ngón chân mất đi điểm tựa. Lúc đó, gân phía trên sẽ thắng trong cuộc giằng co, gốc ngón chân bị kéo vểnh lên còn các khớp giữa thì gập xuống dưới. Khi ngón chân cong lại, đầu xương dài của bàn chân sẽ bị ép xuống lòng bàn chân. Miếng mỡ mềm vốn có tác dụng đệm lót ở chỗ đó bị đẩy ra phía trước, lệch khỏi vị trí, khiến bạn phải đứng trên xương với ít lớp đệm hơn. Đó là lý do vì sao phần đệm trước lòng bàn chân bị đau, và tại sao da dày cộp cùng các vết loét lại xuất hiện ở đó.

Giày dép cũng góp phần. Giày chật hoặc hẹp sẽ ép chặt các ngón chân, gây ma sát liên tục khiến da phía trên chỗ lồi bị viêm. Một số người sinh ra đã có hình dạng bàn chân dễ gặp tình trạng này; các bệnh lý ảnh hưởng đến dây thần kinh hoặc cơ cũng có thể là nguyên nhân khởi phát. Chẳng hạn, bàn chân có vòm cao là hậu quả của sự mất cân bằng cơ ở bàn chân đang phát triển, và điều này làm thay đổi cách toàn bộ bàn chân chịu trọng lượng cơ thể.

Nếu ngón chân cái của bạn cũng bị lệch sang một bên, cơ chế vẫn tương tự. Các mô giữ ngón chân thẳng dần mất khả năng nâng đỡ; ngón chân cái xoay và dịch chuyển về phía các ngón chân nhỏ hơn, khiến các ngón này bị ép gập do thiếu chỗ trống.

Những biện pháp chúng tôi có thể áp dụng

Chụp X-quang khi chịu tải là bước đầu tiên thường được thực hiện, được chụp khi bạn đứng thẳng; những hình ảnh này có thể bao gồm các góc nhìn cận cảnh các ngón chân. Chụp MRI có thể được sử dụng khi chúng tôi cần hình ảnh rõ nét hơn về các mô mềm quanh khớp.

Đối với hầu hết các dạng dị dạng ngón chân, chúng tôi bắt đầu bằng các biện pháp điều trị không phẫu thuật. Biện pháp chủ yếu là thay đổi loại giày: những đôi giày có mũi rộng và cao sẽ giúp giảm áp lực lên ngón chân bị cong. Các ống bọc ngón chân bằng mút hoặc gel silicone và miếng đệm kê dưới ngón có thể giúp đệm lót những chỗ đau. Việc đặt miếng đệm dưới phần đệm trước lòng bàn chân, kể cả miếng lót đệm xương bàn chân, có thể giúp phân tán lực ra khỏi vùng đau. Đối với chỗ lồi xương ngón út (bunionette), tức chỗ lồi ở mặt ngoài ngón chân út, chúng tôi cũng có thể gọt bớt lớp chai cứng. Nếu bạn còn bị bàn chân bẹt, việc sử dụng đế lót giày hoặc miếng chỉnh hình riêng biệt cũng có thể hữu ích. Các biện pháp vật lý trị liệu và những cách đơn giản này không thể tự làm thẳng ngón chân, nhưng có thể giúp giảm các triệu chứng. Thông thường chúng tôi đề nghị bạn thử áp dụng những biện pháp này một thời gian thỏa đáng trước khi cân nhắc phẫu thuật.

Tiêm steroid, còn gọi là cortisone, chỉ có vai trò rất hạn chế trong trường hợp này. Đặc biệt đối với tình trạng ngón chân hình vuốt, việc tiêm steroid có thể làm yếu các dây chằng giữ ngón chân ổn định, và dị dạng khi đó có thể trở nên tồi tệ hơn. Vì vậy chúng tôi chỉ sử dụng phương pháp này rất hạn chế, nếu có.

Phẫu thuật sẽ được cân nhắc khi các biện pháp điều trị không phẫu thuật không giúp bạn giảm triệu chứng đủ, hoặc khi ngón chân đã cứng lại ở một vị trí cố định. Ca phẫu thuật sẽ được điều chỉnh tùy theo tình trạng cụ thể của từng ngón chân và các khớp bị ảnh hưởng. Phẫu thuật có thể bao gồm việc làm thẳng ngón chân bằng cách giải phóng các mô mềm bị co rút, cắt bỏ một mảnh xương nhỏ ở khớp bị cong, hoặc rút ngắn một xương bàn chân dài để cân bằng lại phần trước bàn chân. Các gân có thể được chuyển hướng hoặc kéo dài nhằm khôi phục sự cân bằng lực giúp ngón chân nằm phẳng. Miếng đệm bị tổn thương ở gốc ngón chân có thể được sửa chữa. Trong trường hợp khớp bị hao mòn nghiêm trọng, bác sĩ có thể tiến hành hợp khớp để ngón chân giữ được tư thế thẳng và ổn định. Thông thường chúng tôi dùng dây kim loại tạm thời để cố định các cấu trúc trong quá trình lành thương; trong một số trường hợp, các loại implant vĩnh viễn mới hơn cũng có thể được sử dụng. Chúng tôi sẽ cùng bạn thảo luận về phương pháp phù hợp nhất với bàn chân của bạn và đưa ra quyết định chung.

Những điều bạn có thể mong đợi

Khi đi giày rộng rãi hơn, sử dụng đệm lót và các biện pháp đơn giản khác, tình trạng đau ở phần đệm trước lòng bàn chân và trên ngón chân bị cong thường sẽ thuyên giảm. Tuy nhiên, những biện pháp này không thể làm thẳng lại ngón chân đã bị biến dạng. Nếu ngón chân đã cứng lại ở một vị trí cố định, thường thì nó sẽ giữ nguyên như vậy nếu không phẫu thuật.

Nếu phẫu thuật là phương án phù hợp với bạn, mục tiêu là giúp ngón chân thẳng hơn, thoải mái hơn và giúp phần trước bàn chân chịu trọng lượng cơ thể một cách đều đặn hơn. Quá trình hồi phục diễn ra từ từ; bạn cần thời gian để ngón chân lành lại và cảm thấy như một phần của bàn chân trở lại. Một số phương pháp được thiết kế để cho phép bạn vận động ngón chân sớm, nhờ đó giảm nguy cơ ngón chân bị cứng. Những phương pháp khác lại tác động lên nhiều vùng của bàn chân và cần thời gian hồi phục lâu hơn.

Mọi ca phẫu thuật đều tiềm ẩn một số rủi ro. Một biến chứng hiếm gặp nhưng xảy ra ngay sau phẫu thuật ngón chân là việc lưu lượng máu đến ngón chân bị giảm sút. Tình trạng này thường gặp hơn ở những người hút thuốc hoặc những người phải chỉnh sửa lại ngón chân lần thứ hai. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật sẽ giải thích rõ những rủi ro cụ thể liên quan đến ca phẫu thuật của bạn.

Kết quả phẫu thuật phụ thuộc vào tình trạng bàn chân và phương pháp được chọn. Một số thủ thuật đã được ghi nhận là ít biến chứng; trong khi những thủ thuật khác, đặc biệt là các ca phẫu thuật kết hợp nhiều bước đối với các ngón chân nhỏ, thường dẫn đến nhiều biến chứng hơn, kết quả không tốt bằng và thời gian hồi phục lâu hơn so với các phiên bản đơn giản hơn của cùng ca phẫu thuật. Bác sĩ phẫu thuật sẽ cân nhắc kỹ để chọn phương pháp giúp ngón chân của bạn đạt kết quả tốt nhất và hồi phục thuận lợi nhất.

Khi nào nên gặp bác sĩ

Hãy đến gặp bác sĩ đa khoa nếu chỗ đau trên ngón chân cong hoặc ở phần đệm trước lòng bàn chân không hề thuyên giảm sau vài tuần đi giày rộng hơn; hoặc nếu vùng da dày cứng ở đó bị nứt ra thành vết loét. Hãy yêu cầu được khám bởi chuyên gia nếu cơn đau khiến bạn không thể đi bộ, làm việc hoặc ngủ được; hoặc nếu các ngón chân cong nhiều đến mức không còn nằm phẳng trong giày nữa. Đồng thời hãy nói với bác sĩ về bất kỳ thay đổi nào về hình dạng bàn chân ở vùng trên, chẳng hạn như vòm bàn chân quá cao hoặc gót chân bị lệch vị trí; vì những điều này có thể ảnh hưởng đến toàn bộ bàn chân và có thể cũng cần được xử lý.


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.

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2. upon express reinstatement by the Licensor.

For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 6(b) does not affect any right the Licensor may have to seek remedies for Your violations of this Public License.

c. For the avoidance of doubt, the Licensor may also offer the Licensed Material under separate terms or conditions or stop distributing the Licensed Material at any time; however, doing so will not terminate this Public License.

d. Sections 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8 survive termination of this Public License.

Section 7 -- Other Terms and Conditions.

a. The Licensor shall not be bound by any additional or different terms or conditions communicated by You unless expressly agreed.

b. Any arrangements, understandings, or agreements regarding the Licensed Material not stated herein are separate from and independent of the terms and conditions of this Public License.

Section 8 -- Interpretation.

a. For the avoidance of doubt, this Public License does not, and shall not be interpreted to, reduce, limit, restrict, or impose conditions on any use of the Licensed Material that could lawfully be made without permission under this Public License.

b. To the extent possible, if any provision of this Public License is deemed unenforceable, it shall be automatically reformed to the minimum extent necessary to make it enforceable. If the provision cannot be reformed, it shall be severed from this Public License without affecting the enforceability of the remaining terms and conditions.

c. No term or condition of this Public License will be waived and no failure to comply consented to unless expressly agreed to by the Licensor.

d. Nothing in this Public License constitutes or may be interpreted as a limitation upon, or waiver of, any privileges and immunities that apply to the Licensor or You, including from the legal processes of any jurisdiction or authority.


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