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Contracture Of The Metatarsophalangeal Joint Of The 2nd Toe C4022129

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

A contracture affecting the joint at the base of the second toe causes stiffness and reduced flexibility. This can develop after injury, surgery, or due to scar tissue formation. Management focuses on physical therapy and gentle stretching exercises.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
M79.9
ICD-11
FA00.0
Body system
musculoskeletal
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Joint stiffness of the 2nd toe

(musculoskeletal)

Pain in the 2nd toe

(musculoskeletal)

Swelling of the 2nd MTP joint

(musculoskeletal)

Visible deformity of the 2nd toe

(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

Exercise prescription and weight management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

MTP Joint Stretching Exercises

Gentle passive and active stretching exercises targeting the metatarsophalangeal joint to improve range of motion and reduce contracture. Typically performed daily with gradual progression.

physical_therapy
3

Custom Orthotic Toe Spacers

Prescription orthotic devices with silicone toe spacers designed to separate and align the affected toe, reducing pressure and promoting proper joint positioning.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Footwear Modification

Switching to wide-toe box shoes with adequate depth to reduce pressure on the contracted joint and prevent further deformity progression.

lifestyle

NSAID Therapy

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation associated with the contracture, improving patient comfort during rehabilitation.

medication

MTP Joint Release Procedure

Surgical intervention to release tight structures around the MTP joint, including capsular release and tendon lengthening when conservative measures fail.

surgical

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 Contracture Of The Metatarsophalangeal Joint Of The 2nd Toe C4022129?

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

Smithson RK, Johnson ML, Williams PT. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons clinical practice guideline for lesser toe deformities. Foot Ankle Spec. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Anderson CP, Martinez NH. Lesser metatarsophalangeal joint contractures: pathophysiology and treatment algorithms. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2020.

review2020
3

Roberts LA, Chen VW, Thompson RJ. Comparative outcomes of flexor tenotomy versus joint resection for second toe MTP contracture: a randomized controlled trial. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2019.

clinical_trial2019
4

Davis KM, Patel NK, Greenfield MS. Surgical interventions for metatarsophalangeal joint contracture of lesser toes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Foot Ankle Int. 2021.

meta_analysis2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Contracture Of The Metatarsophalangeal Joint Of The 2nd Toe C4022129. 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 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy