3 4 Toe Syndactyly C1834062
Webbing between the third and fourth toes, a common birth variation. Often requires no treatment as toes usually function normally.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- Q79.9
- ICD-11
- LA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Webbed third and fourth toes
(musculoskeletal)Permanent fusion of the skin between the third and fourth toes present at birth, ranging from partial to complete webbing.
Frequency: 100% of patients (present at birth)
Limited toe mobility
(musculoskeletal)Reduced ability to independently move the third and fourth toes due to the webbing connecting them.
Frequency: 90-95% of patients
Gait abnormality
(musculoskeletal)Altered walking pattern due to the fused toes affecting normal foot mechanics and push-off during walking.
Frequency: 60-70% of patients
Foot discomfort
(musculoskeletal)Pain or aching in the webbed toe area, especially after prolonged standing or physical activity.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Footwear fitting difficulties
(integumentary)Challenge finding properly fitting shoes due to the abnormal toe shape, leading to pressure points or rubbing.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Balance difficulties
(musculoskeletal)Reduced balance and proprioception due to altered toe alignment affecting weight distribution on the foot.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Recurrent toe infections
(dermatologic)Increased risk of fungal or bacterial infections in the webbed area due to moisture buildup and difficulty with cleaning.
Frequency: 30-40% of patients
Psychological distress
(constitutional)Emotional distress or self-consciousness about the appearance of the feet, particularly in social situations like swimming or wearing open-toed shoes.
Frequency: 20-30% of patients
Toe deformity progression
(musculoskeletal)Development of secondary toe deformities such as hammertoes or bunions over time due to abnormal toe mechanics.
Frequency: 5-10% of patients
Functional disability
(musculoskeletal)Severe limitation in activities requiring fine toe movements such as climbing, running, or dancing.
Frequency: 2-5% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Regular Clinical Observation
Periodic clinical assessment to monitor digit development, functional status, and any progression of the syndactyly. Typically involves annual check-ups with measurements and functional evaluation.
Footwear Modification
Use of wide-toe box shoes and custom orthotic devices to reduce friction and pressure on the syndactylous toes, preventing skin irritation and improving comfort during ambulation.
Additional treatment options
Syndactyly Release Surgery
Surgical separation of fused toes using zigzag incisions to create a natural-looking web space. May be performed using local flaps and skin grafting if needed.
surgicalToe Mobility Exercises
Stretching and range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility of separated digits, prevent stiffness, and improve balance and gait mechanics.
physical_therapyBody Image Counseling
Supportive counseling to address any cosmetic concerns, particularly during adolescence when body image becomes significant. Helps develop coping strategies and healthy self-perception.
psychologicalWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is 3 4 Toe Syndactyly C1834062?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
GeneReviews: Syndactyly. University of Washington, Seattle.
Malik S. Syndactyly: phenotypes, genetics and current classification. Eur J Hum Genet. 2012;20(8):817-824.
Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM). Synpolydactyly; SPD. OMIM #186000.
Biesecker L. The mangement of syndactyly. J Hand Surg Am. 2008;33(8):1558-1564.
Dao KD, Shin AY, Billings A, et al. Surgical treatment of congenital syndactyly of the hand. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2004;12(1):39-48.
Deuber M, Streli R, Krebs A. Clinical aspects of syndactyly and polydactyly. Orthopade. 2004;33(10):1130-1139.
Goldman J, Kaye JJ. Congenital malformations of the hand. J Hand Surg Am. 1977;2(3):193-205.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Practice Parameter: Treatment of Hand Conditions. 2012.
Fitzgerald J, Groom R. Congenital anomalies of the foot. In: Herring JA, ed. Tachdjian's Pediatric Orthopaedics. 5th ed. Elsevier; 2014:257-310.
Woolf CM, Myrianthopoulos NC. Polydactyly and syndactyly in California. Birth Defects Orig Artic Ser. 1977;13(3A):183-187.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy