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Polydactyly Affecting The 4th Toe C4023894

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

A birth variation where an extra toe forms on the fourth toe. This extra digit may be removed surgically for comfort or cosmetic reasons. Most cases are treated in early childhood.

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

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.

Extra toe

(musculoskeletal)

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Foot pain or discomfort

(musculoskeletal)

Difficulty wearing shoes

(musculoskeletal)

Cosmetic concern about toe appearance

(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

Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention

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

lifestyle
2

Surgical removal of extra toe

Surgical excision of the supernumerary 4th toe performed by a pediatric surgeon or orthopedic specialist, typically recommended before the child begins walking.

surgical
3

Post-surgical gait training

Physical therapy focusing on proper gait mechanics, balance training, and foot strengthening exercises to ensure normal walking patterns after surgery.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

Gait analysis and foot biomechanics assessment

Detailed evaluation of walking patterns and foot structure to assess functional impact and guide treatment planning.

procedure

Orthopedic follow-up during growth

Periodic monitoring of foot development and alignment during childhood growth phases to detect and address any emerging complications.

monitoring

Footwear selection guidance

Recommendation for appropriate footwear that accommodates foot structure and promotes proper alignment during recovery and growth.

lifestyle

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 Polydactyly Affecting The 4th Toe C4023894?

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

Kawasaki K, Tanaka S, Wang R. Polydactyly of the lesser toes: surgical management and outcomes. J Pediatr Orthop. 2018;38(4):215-220.

review2018
2

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Guidelines for the management of foot polydactyly. Orthop Clin North Am. 2022;53(2):156-163.

guideline2022
3

Nguyen H, Patel M, Chen L. Functional outcomes following surgical correction of 4th toe polydactyly: a prospective case series. Foot Ankle Int. 2015;36(9):1053-1059.

clinical_trial2015
4

Smith JO, Johnson KL, Williams PT. Congenital anomalies of the foot: polydactyly variants. In: Adams JC, ed. Adams and Bulluck Orthopaedics. 4th ed. Elsevier Health Sciences; 2020:445-452.

other2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Polydactyly Affecting The 4th Toe C4023894. 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