When one of the toes, normally the big toe or pinky toe, stretches over the adjacent toe, this is known as an overlapping toe problem. When the foot stretches beneath the opposite toe, a phenomenon known as an overlapping toe occurs. This is a common ailment in young children. Adults may develop it as a result of another underlying disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis or bunion joints. Any issues that cause discomfort or stiffness in the toes should be addressed immediately. Ignoring the signs may exacerbate the problem, leading to tissue deterioration and infection.
Causes
There are different factors involved in the cause of overlapping toes.
• Since the disease runs in families, it’s genetic.
• The location of the toes may be affected by the position of the fetus during growth within the womb.
• The typical biomechanics of the foot are altered in children with high arches or flat feet (fallen arches), resulting in overlapped toes, especially the fifth toe.
• Overlapping toes can also be caused by hammer toes (toes bent in the shape of a hammer).
Treatment
Overlapping toes can be treated through surgery as well as through non-surgical ways. We are here to discuss some of the non-surgical ways to treat the overlapping toes.
Wear corrective shoes
The bad shoe selection may also cause overlapping toes. In some situations, by moving to more comfortable and roomy shoes, the toes can redress themselves. Consult our Sydney podiatrists on your shoes choices to see if this is a problem for you.
Use toe separators
Toe separators and spacers help hold the toes in a perfect position by separating them. Toe separators and spacers are widely available online, or the Podiatrist can create a personalized orthotic to assist with toe separation. Gel toe separators and gel toe caps are two types of forefoot aids that are available on the market and even online. These will assist with keeping the toes apart.
Do not wear High Heels
The cause of alternating toes is always high heels. They’re usually really narrow in the toe section, which can squeeze the toes together in such a small space.
If you wear heels every day, you should think about switching to a different pair of shoes. You don’t have to wear flats all the time, but footwear with more space, comfort, and padding will make a big difference.
Toe loops and Bandage
Toe loops and bandages effectively keep the foot in place by securing it to the opposite toe. The aim of a loop or bandage is to provide additional support to the overlapping toe in order to keep it properly aligned. They are not as powerful as a toe separator, is less invasive and allows you to walk with them in place if appropriate.
Bottom Line
Surgery to correct an overlapping toe condition is one drastic treatment choice. If at all practicable, most podiatrists choose to postpone surgery and scope out other treatment alternatives before resorting to it. However, in some cases, surgery is the best way to fix overlapping toes. Any issues that cause pain or stiffness in the toes should be addressed as soon as possible. Ignoring the signs and symptoms will make the situation worse.
