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Evaluating the Function of the Foot Core System in the Elderly
Published on: March 11, 2022
Biphalangeal fifth toe
Greta Dereymaeker1, Chris van der Broek
1Regional Hospital, University Hospital, Pellenberg Weligerveld 1, Pellenberg B-3212, Lubbeek, Belgium. gretadrm@skynet.be
Background:
A biphalangeal fifth toe is a common variant in the European population. The frequency is higher in the Japanese population. It is considered an anatomical variant of the normal triphalangeal fifth toe.
Methods:
Patients divided into three study groups were retrospectively reviewed to determine the effect of a biphalangeal fifth toe on the occurrence of clinically symptomatic pathology of the fifth ray.
Results:
The prevalence of a biphalangeal fifth toe in patients with hammer or claw toes was 65%, bunionettes 47%, and overriding fifth toe 37%. Only for the group with hammer or claw toes was prevalence significantly higher than that in the control group (39%).
Conclusion:
The stiffness and rigidity of the biphalangeal fifth toe may predispose it for symptomatic hammer or claw toe.
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