A Lesser Known Form Of Dislocation.

You have probably heard of the term dislocation in reference to a major joint, such as the knee or shoulder.

Dislocations often occur because of an injury. The pain can be quite intense. Most of the time, the joint can be re-located back to its original position without the need for surgery.

An injury of the foot or ankle can lead to a dislocation. However, there is a unique syndrome involving the second toe that can become a dislocation without any injury.

It’s called Pre-Dislocation Syndrome.

This condition occurs where the second toe meets the foot. Most people will complain of pain in the ball of the foot, near that second toe.

Sometimes the second toe can become curled, raised, or significantly deformed. It can even overlap the big toe.

Other times, a person will present with pain but the toes will look perfectly normal.

The most common symptom is feeling like you are stepping on something under the ball of the foot. It can feel like a marble; or like the sock is bunched up, but it isn’t. The pain is most pronounced when walking around barefoot.

For reasons unbeknownst to us, women over 40 years of age are most prone to this condition. Certain women’s shoes can worsen the pain, but they do not cause the problem.

If you think you might have this condition, it is critical to get it diagnosed and treated as early as possible. That way we can prevent a full dislocation and the potential need for surgery.

If you are experiencing pain on the ball of the foot, feel like you are stepping on something in this area but nothing is there, or your second toe alignment looks out of the ordinary, don’t wait to have it assessed.

We specialize in diagnosing and treating this common condition. Let us know how we can serve you.