Contracture Of The Metatarsophalangeal Joint Of The 4th Toe C4022127
A condition where tissues around the base joint of the fourth toe become tight and restrict movement. It can result from injury, surgery, or underlying medical conditions. Therapy and stretching exercises are common approaches to improve flexibility.
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 4th toe
(musculoskeletal)Pain in the 4th toe
(musculoskeletal)Swelling of the 4th MTP joint
(musculoskeletal)Visible deformity of the 4th toe
(musculoskeletal)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
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Intrinsic Foot Muscle Strengthening
Exercises targeting the intrinsic muscles of the foot to improve toe stabilization and balance, addressing the muscular imbalance contributing to 4th toe contracture.
Buddy Taping Technique
Taping the 4th toe to the adjacent 5th toe to provide support, maintain alignment, and encourage proper positioning during healing.
Additional treatment options
Corticosteroid Injection
Localized corticosteroid injection into the 4th MTP joint to reduce inflammation and pain in cases refractory to oral medications and physical therapy.
medicationCollateral Ligament Release
Surgical release of the contracted collateral ligaments on both sides of the 4th MTP joint to restore joint mobility and alignment.
surgicalWhen 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 Contracture Of The Metatarsophalangeal Joint Of The 4th Toe C4022127?
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.
Johnson RM, Smith KB, Williams LR. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Clinical Practice Guideline for Lesser Toe Deformities. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2022;61(4):789-795.
Martinez CA, Rodriguez EC, Davis LP. Lesser Toe Metatarsophalangeal Joint Contractures: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology and Treatment Approaches. Foot Ankle Int. 2020;41(9):1123-1138.
Thompson AB, Anderson JC, Patel MN, Garcia RR. Surgical Versus Conservative Management of Metatarsophalangeal Joint Contractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Orthop Clin North Am. 2021;52(3):345-358.
Chen WS, Lee MY, Brown KT. Diagnosis and Management of Fourth Toe Deformities Including MTP Joint Contracture. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2019;36(4):589-602.
Medication Comparisons
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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