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Have you ever noticed something weird about your toes where the first toe seems to appear shorter than the second? The condition isn't uncommon, and a lot many people have it. Morton's toe or Morton's foot is a condition of the feet. It happens when the second metatarsal is longer than the first metatarsal. Sometimes, Morton's toe can increase the chances of calluses. Calluses are nothing but thick, soft tissues that form on the sole of your feet. 

Pain That May Result From A Morton's Toe

The set of bones that connect your toes to the feet are known as metatarsals. By nature, metatarsals are curved upward to form the arch of the patient's feet. The thickness of the first metatarsal is generally more than that of the subsequent ones. Patients with Morton's toe have a thicker second metatarsal and would notice experiencing excessive weight pressure against the sole of their feet, resulting in aches and pain between the first two metatarsals. 

What are the symptoms of Morton's Toe?

The symptoms of Morton’s toe can be:

• Chronic lower back pain
• Severe pain in between the first and second toes
• Experiencing discomfort in the ball of the foot
• Calf stiffness, Achilles pain
• Postural issues like slouching and rolled shoulders
• Pain in the feet, knees, and ankles
• Fibromyalgia like symptoms 
• Bunions

How do we treat Morton's toe?

Initially, your Palo Alto doctor would place a footpad beneath the first toe and metatarsal, which would allow the patient to manage the pressure of the weight against the feet. The doctor would suggest physiotherapy treatments like the Electro-Acuscope and MyACT (Myofascial Acoustic Compression Therapy), exercises and custom orthotics, to ease the pain and help align the feet.

How can you take care of your Morton's toe?

There are some simple ways to take care of your Morton's toe and help prevent pain. These tips include:

• Avoiding shoes with pointed tips
• Wearing shoes that offer excellent support
• Wearing shoe pads that covers and protects parts of your feet from pain and friction
• Ensuring to take care of any signs of calluses that appear on your feet. 

Other foot conditions that arise from Morton's toe

Several other types of foot pain that may be associated with Morton's toe:

• If your Morton's toe is continuously rubbing against the shoe, it may result in the formation of a corn or callus at the tip of the toe.
• Sometimes, your Morton's toe may lead to a hammertoe. It's a condition that arises when the tip of Morton's toe gets pressed against the tips of the shoe.
• In some instances, Morton's toe can increase the chances of your toes turning red and swollen.

Your Palo alto doctor of chiropractic can treat cases of foot pain and help you get the right kind of shoes. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Heshmat by calling our office at 650-470-0008 or requesting an appointment online.