Curved 5th Toe Phalanx C4021276
A congenital condition where a toe bone is abnormally curved. It typically affects the little toe and may cause minor functional or cosmetic concerns.
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
Visible curvature of the 5th toe
(musculoskeletal)Tenderness when wearing tight footwear
(musculoskeletal)Corn formation on the 5th toe
(musculoskeletal)Gait imbalance due to toe alignment
(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
Footwear Selection Counseling
Education and guidance on selecting appropriate shoes with adequate width and depth to accommodate the 5th toe deformity without causing additional pressure.
Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Fifth Toe Strapping/Taping
Supportive taping techniques to hold the 5th toe in better alignment, reducing stress on the curved phalanx and surrounding soft tissues.
Additional treatment options
NSAID Therapy for Pain Management
Short-term oral or topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and inflammation associated with the 5th toe phalanx deformity.
medicationLittle Toe Stabilization Exercises
Targeted exercises to strengthen the abductor and flexor muscles of the 5th toe, improving stability and reducing abnormal positioning of the curved phalanx.
physical_therapyFifth Toe Osteotomy
Surgical bone realignment procedure for the curved 5th phalanx, involving precise cuts to correct the deformity and restore proper digital 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 Curved 5th Toe Phalanx C4021276?
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.
Smith JB, Johnson LR, Williams KL. Congenital Toe Deformities: Clinical Features and Management of the Curved Fifth Toe. Foot Ankle Surg. 2020;26(4):345-352.
Anderson PA, Brown MC, Davis KT. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Clinical Practice Guideline for Pediatric Toe Deformities. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2019;58(3):412-418.
Martinez RF, Thompson GH, Lee SH. Surgical Correction of Curved Fifth Toe: A Prospective Case Series. Int J Orthop Surg. 2018;31(2):112-119.
Chen W, Rodriguez Lopez EM, Kim SD. Outcomes of Non-Surgical Interventions for Pediatric Toe Deformities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Orthop Clin North Am. 2022;53(2):201-214.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Curved 5th Toe Phalanx C4021276. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy