Toes come in all shapes and sizes.  They can vary in length and can even be bent, curly or crossed over another toe.  A toe that crosses over another toe is not necessarily problematic, but it can be if it is ignored and left untreated.

Crossover toes & possible complications

Genetics play a big role in how our feet move and look.  If your parents have a toe that crosses over another, you may be more predisposed to developing one at some point in your life.  Crossover toes can also be caused by injury or trauma, flat feet, high arches, lower body mechanics, tight calf muscles or a more serious underlying medical issue such as rheumatoid arthritis. Crossover or overlapping toes are considered a toe deformity because they are not typical or “normal.”

Crossover toes that are flexible can still be straightened with supports and devices.  Over time, they may become stiff or rigid which can lead to pain and discomfort.  Complications caused by crossover or overlapping toes can include:

• Callus and corns
• Blisters
• Difficulty finding footwear that fits well
• Hammer toes
• Metatarsalgia or pain on the ball of the foot
• Toe wound +/- infection

The most common toes that may become crossed over are the second and baby toes.  A bunion deformity in the big toe joint typically causes the big toe to deviate laterally or point towards the little toes.  As the big toe deviates more and more, it will press up against the second toe which causes it to lift up out of the way.  When this happens, the second toe may override the big toe.  An overlapping baby toe is commonly seen in newborns and oftentimes will spontaneously correct with development and walking.  It can also be treated early with buddy taping to the adjacent toe.

Treatment of crossover toes

Taping & splinting

A toe that is flexible can be moved and manipulated.  Taping or splinting can be useful to help straighten the affected toe.

Toe spacers

Toe spacers made of foam or silicone act as a buffer between toes.  They are beneficial as they protect the toes from excess pressure from being too close together.

Footwear

Shoes that have a deep toe box will allow more room for the toes and will accommodate toes that are crossed over.  This will help alleviate any discomfort due to pressure and can prevent skin irritation, such as blisters and corns, from developing.

Orthotics

If the crossover toe is caused by a biomechanical issue such as flat feet or high arches, custom foot orthotics and off-the-shelf insoles can be effective in correcting the position of the foot and making walking more efficient, which can slow down the progression of this common toe deformity.  They may also help reduce callus build-up.

Stretching

Tight calf muscles reduce the range of motion in our feet and ankles, which may change the way the foot moves when walking. Stretching increases flexibility, protects against injury and can also help custom foot orthotics work more effectively.

Surgery

Surgery may be required if pain and discomfort is severe and negatively impacts activities of daily living.  It is also a more permanent solution for those who have developed a chronic wound from their crossover toes.

Pain and discomfort due to crossover toes may cause you to alter the way you walk, which can create other issues such as knee or hip pain.  If you are experiencing any pain and discomfort because of a crossover or overlapping toe, give your local BioPed a call today to make an appointment with one of our lower limb clinicians to learn about what can be done or what you can do at home to feel more comfortable.