Overlapping and underlapping toes are a deformity characterized by one or more toes positioning themselves on top or underneath another. There may be deformities in other toes occurring at the same time, such as hammer toe, mallet toe, etc. Hallux valgus – the big toe moving out of position in a lateral movement is also commonly seen.
Hard corns commonly develop on the top of the toes when they start to rub on the toe box of shoes that are too shallow for the contracted toe(s). Blisters and soft corns may develop where the tops overlap with each other. Calluses can also develop on the bottom of the toes and in the forefoot.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Cross-over toes
- Digiti minimi varus
Symptoms:
- Toes do not generally hurt, rather friction between the toes
- Pain with direct pressure on top of the corns
- Rubbing where shoe box is too shallow for the overlapping toes
Signs to look for:
- One or more toes on top or underneath another that move right back to position when you try to straighten them
- Other toe deformities as described above
- Shoe vamp shows wear in spot of the overlapping toes
- Corns on top of toes
- Calluses on the underside of downward pointing toes
- Soft corns or blisters between toes
Possible Causes:
- Heredity
- Found in many flat feet
- Arthritis, systemic and/or neurologic disease
- Age related – the incidence rises with age
Goals:
- Restore balance and support
- Eliminate callusing and corns
- Footwear that moves the foot forward with as little lateral (side to side) movement as possible
- Footwear with an adequate toe box
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Shoes with stretchable uppers if toes rubbing on shoe
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs.
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear heels and pumps minimally
- Walk barefoot minimally
Other:
- Spot stretching on shoe as necessary
- Toe cushioning and straightening devices, such as toe separators, toe straighteners, toe caps, toe crests, etc.
Activities:
Rotate weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Decker, Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics Text: B. Meanwell, CPed, Decker, Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics