Floating toe

Floating toe is a common complication of Weil osteotomies. With Floating toe, also known as flail toe and elevated toe, the toe sticks up in the air rather than in the aligned, biomechanical position of other toes. At times, the affected toe will even "cross over" an adjacent toe, causing more pain, discomfort and problems with footwear.

This complication occurs if the osteotomy of the metatarsophalangeal bones and joint surgery did not address the underlying cause of the initial problem, such as hammertoe.

Symptoms

  • Toe sticks up in the air, rather than flat and aligned like other toes.
  • Toe is inflamed, red, and painful.
  • Joint is unstable, either too stiff or too loose.
  • Floating toe may be seen with crossover toe.

Treatment

Non-surgical physical therapy of floating toe may help. If surgery is required, your surgeon may recommend one or more procedures to restore toes to their proper alignment and functionality. To learn more about surgical options, please review the HAT-TRICK◊ section of this website.


All information provided on this website is for information purposes only. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help.

All materials copyright © 2020 Smith & Nephew, All Rights Reserved.