The Effect of First Ray Shortening in the Development of Metatarsalgia in the Second through Fourth Rays after Metatarsal Osteotomy

Excessive shortening of the first metatarsal should be avoided to decrease the occurrence of postoperative transfer metatarsalgia. We found a greater patient satisfaction with foot alignment in patients who had a greater decrease in the hallux valgus angle and less shortening of the first ray.