Question
Dr. Katz,

On occasion (maybe 3 times/month), my third toe on my left foot locks up against the fourth toe (the joint towards the bottom of the toe actually angles toward it).  I cannot move the toe unless I physically pull it away from the fourth with my fingers and even then, it sometimes locks up again for about 10 minutes.  I do not have this problem with my right foot and no particular pair of shoes seems to aggravate more than others.  What could be the cause and what should I do?

Answer
Hi Randed,

This could be related to arthritis of the joint. There also may be a tight tendon involved.  If you have ever had an injury to the area therein could be a chipped piece of cartilage that causes the locking of the joint.  I would see a podiatrist and have the area checked and x-rayed.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com

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