Brachymetatarsia is a foot deformity that causes one toe to be shorter than all the other toes. Affecting women more often than men, it can cause everything from mild embarrassment to severe pain. Typically affecting the fourth toe of both feet, the condition makes normal walking movements nearly impossible. The resulting uneven weight distribution places an undue burden on the other toes of the foot, which can in turn cause pain, calluses, and even ulcerations.
Thankfully, there are a number of treatment options for people who suffer from brachymetatarsia. Those with a mild abnormality can buy special shoes, insoles, and pads that lessen the discomfort associated with the condition. Patients with a more severe form (or people who simply tire of the pain, expense, and humiliation of the deformity) often seek surgical relief.
Those who do choose surgery have three options from which to choose—gradual lengthening, bone grafting, and stage lengthening. Read through our infographic to learn more about brachymetatarsia, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each type of surgery.
