Is Your Second Toe Longer? How Morton’s Toe Impacts Your Feet

If your second toe is longer than your big toe, you may have a common foot structure known as Morton’s toe. While this variation is often harmless, for some people it can significantly affect gait mechanics, weight distribution, and overall foot comfort.

At Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists, we frequently evaluate patients who experience foot pain, calluses, or balance issues related to Morton’s toe—often without realizing their toe length plays a role.

What Is Morton’s Toe?

Morton’s toe occurs when the second toe appears longer than the big toe. This usually happens because the first metatarsal bone is slightly shorter than normal, not because the second toe is truly “too long.”

This structural difference changes how weight is distributed across the forefoot during walking and standing.

Morton’s toe is very common and is considered a normal anatomical variation rather than a deformity.

How Morton’s Toe Affects Gait

The big toe is designed to bear much of the body’s weight during push-off when walking. With Morton’s toe, that load shifts toward the second toe and second metatarsal.

This altered mechanics can lead to:

• Increased pressure under the ball of the foot

• Earlier lift-off of the heel

• Reduced stability during push-off

• Overloading of the second toe

• Compensation in the ankle, knee, or hip

Over time, these changes may contribute to pain or injury.

Common Symptoms Associated With Morton’s Toe

Not everyone with Morton’s toe experiences problems, but symptoms may include:

• Forefoot pain (metatarsalgia)

• Calluses under the second toe

• Hammertoes or claw toes

• Plantar fasciitis

• Ball-of-foot burning or aching

• Stress fractures of the second metatarsal

• Fat pad irritation

Pain often worsens with prolonged standing, walking, or high-impact activity.

Conditions Linked to Morton’s Toe

Because of abnormal pressure distribution, Morton’s toe may increase the risk of:

Metatarsalgia

Excess pressure under the second metatarsal head can cause inflammation and pain.

Stress Fractures

Repetitive overload may weaken bone over time.

Hammertoes

The second toe may curl due to muscle imbalance and constant pressure.

Plantar Fasciitis

Altered push-off mechanics can strain the plantar fascia.

Calluses and Corns

Skin thickens in response to increased pressure points.

How Morton’s Toe Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis is typically made through:

• Physical examination

• Assessment of foot structure

• Gait analysis

• Evaluation of callus patterns

• Imaging, such as X-rays, if pain is present

At Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists, we evaluate not only toe length but also how your foot functions as a whole.

Treatment Options for Morton’s Toe

Treatment depends on symptoms, activity level, and overall foot mechanics.

Supportive Footwear

Shoes with adequate forefoot cushioning and a roomy toe box help reduce pressure.

Custom Orthotics

Orthotics can redistribute pressure away from the second metatarsal and improve gait efficiency. A properly designed orthotic is one of the most effective treatments for symptomatic Morton’s toe.

Metatarsal Pads

These pads help offload pressure from the painful area.

Activity Modification

Reducing repetitive high-impact activities may decrease symptoms.

Stretching and Strengthening

Targeted exercises can help improve foot function and reduce compensatory strain.

Advanced Treatments

If pain persists, additional treatments may be recommended based on the underlying condition.

Surgery is rarely needed and is reserved for severe cases that do not respond to conservative care.

When to See a Podiatrist

You should seek evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent ball-of-foot pain

• Recurrent calluses or sores

• Toe deformities developing over time

• Pain limiting daily activity

• Symptoms that worsen with walking or exercise

Early intervention can prevent secondary problems.

How Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists Can Help

We offer comprehensive care for patients with Morton’s toe, including:

• Detailed biomechanical assessment

• Gait analysis

• Custom orthotic fabrication

• Callus and pain management

• Treatment of related conditions such as plantar fasciitis or stress injuries

Our goal is to improve comfort, protect your joints, and keep you moving without pain.

The Bottom Line

Morton’s toe is a common foot structure that can subtly but significantly affect gait mechanics. While many people never experience symptoms, others develop pain due to altered pressure and compensation.

With proper footwear, orthotic support, and professional guidance, most patients with Morton’s toe can stay active and pain-free.

If foot pain or recurring calluses are affecting your quality of life, Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists can help determine whether Morton’s toe is part of the problem and create a personalized treatment plan. Contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.