Overlapping Toes

There are many causes of overlapping toes including genetics, arthritis, bunions, and muscle imbalances in the feet such as those relating to gait. Overlapping toes can occur in any of the toes and can cause corns, callus, blisters and other irritations if they are not accommodated for.

Conservative treatment (non-surgical treatment) of overlapping toes begins with accommodating the disorder.  In flexible overlapping toes it is often advised to wear toe supports such as gel toe straighteners, gel toe caps, combs, or custom made otoform toe wedges to help keep the overlapping toes away from each other. Used correctly, these simple devices can significantly reduce the abnormal friction and pressure of this condition and the associated pain and discomfort.
In both flexible and rigid overlapping toes, shoes with a high, broad toe box (toe area) are generally recommended to help prevent corns and calluses.

In severe cases, surgery by a specialist may be considered.