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Dr Nelson Clinic .com Crossover Toe |
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Dr Mark Nelson Foot & Ankle Specialist
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Seniors: Repair Crossover Toe to Stay ActiveORLANDO, Feb. 21, 2003 – Crossover toe is a common foot problem that can inhibit physical activity for older Americans, but experts presenting at the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons annual meeting today showed that outpatient surgery can correct the deformity and keep senior citizens active and on their feet. Individuals with hammertoes, bunions or a second toe that extends beyond the big toe are most susceptible to developing crossover toe as they age, according to Daniel J. Hatch, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon based near Denver, Colo. “It’s a common problem among older people in which the second toe gradually moves across the big toe. It can be painful and, therefore, difficult to walk comfortably or pursue an active lifestyle.” Hatch explained that the first symptom of crossover toe is pain in the ball of the foot caused by a tear in the underlying joint capsule (plantar plate), fostering instability that allows the second toe to fall out of alignment and eventually drift. At the ACFAS meeting, Hatch and other podiatric foot and ankle surgeons reported that doctors should check the ball of the foot for a possible plantar-plate tear when an older patient complains of pain in the area. They said pre-existing forefoot problems combined with normal wear and tear or possible trauma can cause the plate to tear over time. “Pain in the ball of the foot is the first warning sign indicating the second toe might crossover and eventually limit the activity of an older patient,” said Hatch. “If the pain persists and the toe starts to drift, surgery is recommended to suture the plantar plate or replace it through a tendon-transfer.” Surgery to correct crossover toe is an outpatient procedure performed with a local anesthesia. Patients with bunions or hammertoes are advised to have those deformities corrected during the surgery. Recovery time is about six weeks. “Given the downstream cardiovascular health risks associated with physical inactivity in older patients, we strongly advise those with persistent pain in the ball of the foot and anyone who has developed crossover toe to seek treatment and not let the problem restrict their ability to stay active,” Hatch advised. For further information about foot and ankle conditions and to locate a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon in your area, contact ACFAS toll-free at 1-888-THE FEET or at www.acfas.org. This press release article was provided by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). |
