Morton's foot

Morton's Foot (also known as Morton's Toe or Greek Foot) is a condition characterized by the second toe being longer than the big toe. This condition is named after Dr. Dudley Joy Morton, an American orthopedic surgeon, who first described the condition in the early 20th century.

Anatomy and Physiology

In a normal foot, the first metatarsal bone (connected to the big toe) is the longest. However, in Morton's Foot, the second metatarsal bone is longer. This can cause the weight distribution of the foot to shift, potentially leading to various foot problems and discomfort.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of Morton's Foot can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have foot pain, calluses, or even problems with balance. The condition can be diagnosed through a physical examination of the foot, and in some cases, an X-ray may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for Morton's Foot typically involves addressing any symptoms that the individual is experiencing. This can include using special shoe inserts or orthotics to help redistribute the weight on the foot, physical therapy to strengthen the foot and improve balance, and in some cases, surgery may be considered.

Prevalence and Impact

Morton's Foot is a common condition, with some studies estimating that it affects up to 10% of the population. Despite its prevalence, the condition is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, which can lead to unnecessary foot pain and discomfort.

See Also

• Foot
• Metatarsal bones
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy