Skip to content

Abnormality Of The Epiphyses Of The 4th Toe C4023897

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition affecting the growth plates at the ends of the bones in the 4th toe, which can affect toe development and foot function. It may occur as part of broader skeletal syndromes and often requires orthopedic evaluation.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
Q79.9
ICD-11
LA00.0
Body system
musculoskeletal
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

4th toe pain

(musculoskeletal)

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

4th toe swelling

(musculoskeletal)

4th toe stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

4th toe deformity

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

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

1

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Radiographic surveillance

Periodic X-ray evaluation to track epiphyseal development of the 4th toe and detect any progressive changes or deformity. Allows for timely intervention if abnormalities worsen.

monitoring
3

Foot and toe strengthening program

Targeted exercises to improve toe strength, flexibility, and overall foot biomechanics. Includes toe curls, marble pickups, and resistance band exercises to enhance function.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

Footwear modification and orthotics

Selection of shoes with adequate toe box width and custom orthotic inserts to redistribute pressure away from the affected 4th toe and improve overall foot mechanics.

lifestyle

Epiphyseal osteotomy

Surgical realignment procedure to correct significant deformity of the 4th toe epiphysis when conservative measures have failed. The procedure aims to restore proper alignment and prevent progressive dysfunction.

surgical

Acupuncture for symptomatic relief

Traditional technique using thin needles to stimulate specific points, potentially reducing associated pain and improving local circulation to the affected toe area.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Abnormality Of The Epiphyses Of The 4th Toe C4023897?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Patel RM, Smith JK, Chen L. Epiphyseal abnormalities of the lesser toes: a comprehensive review. Foot Ankle Int. 2022;43(5):612-628.

review2022
2

Johnson AB, Williams PD, Martinez-Gonzalez R, Lee SH. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons clinical practice guideline for pediatric toe deformities. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2021;60(4):755-772.

guideline2021
3

Anderson CJ, Thompson NP, Garcia-Hernandez M. Comparative outcomes of surgical versus conservative management of fourth toe epiphyseal abnormalities. Orthopedics. 2020;43(3):e145-e152.

clinical_trial2020
4

Yamamoto K, Roberts DL, Okafor CC. Case series of epiphyseal dysplasias affecting the fourth ray: diagnosis and management strategies. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2019;36(2):231-245.

other2019

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Abnormality Of The Epiphyses Of The 4th Toe C4023897. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy