Forefoot pain caused by metatarsalgia, hammer toes, or other toe deformities can make walking and daily activities difficult. When conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, orthotics, or medication fail, Distal Metatarsal Metaphyseal Osteotomy (DMMO) provides an effective surgical option.

DMMO realigns the metatarsal bones to relieve pressure on the forefoot and improve function. Mr. Turab Syed, an experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery, performs DMMO at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton. This guide explains the procedure, who can benefit, recovery, and why Mr. Syed is the preferred choice for care.

What is Distal Metatarsal Metaphyseal Osteotomy (DMMO)?

DMMO is a minimally invasive procedure that involves:

• Making small incisions in the forefoot.
• Realigning the metatarsal bones by creating controlled osteotomies (bone cuts).
• Correcting deformities and redistributing pressure across the forefoot.

It is most commonly recommended for:

• Metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of the foot).
• Lesser toe deformities (hammer toes, claw toes).
• Forefoot overload or painful calluses.
• Failed conservative management with orthotics, padding, or medication.

Who can benefit from DMMO?

Ideal candidates for DMMO are patients who:

• Experience chronic forefoot pain or discomfort when walking.
• Have deformities of the lesser toes causing pressure and pain.
• Have not found sufficient relief from non-surgical treatments.

Mr. Syed performs a detailed assessment, including clinical examination and imaging such as X-rays, to determine whether DMMO is the most appropriate treatment.

DMMO in Stirling & Hamilton: The procedure

Pre-operative preparation

Before surgery, patients undergo:

• A detailed consultation to explain the procedure and address questions.
• Imaging such as X-rays for precise surgical planning.
• Pre-operative checks, including blood tests.
• Guidance on fasting and medication management prior to surgery.

The surgery itself

• Performed under local or general anaesthesia depending on the case.
• Small incisions are made in the forefoot to access the metatarsal bones.
• Controlled bone cuts (osteotomies) are made to realign the metatarsals.
• Fixation is achieved with screws or left to heal naturally, depending on the technique.
• The procedure typically lasts 1–2 hours.

Mr. Syed performs DMMO at:

• Kings Park Hospital, Stirling (Polmaise Rd, FK7 9JH) – equipped with modern surgical theatres and dedicated recovery support.
• The Lanarkshire Clinic, Hamilton (Cadzow Avenue, ML3 0FT) – private orthopaedic care with advanced facilities.

Both hospitals are well-connected and accessible for patients across Stirling, Lanarkshire, and surrounding areas.

Duration and post-op care

• Patients may go home the same day or stay overnight for observation.
• The foot is usually protected in a post-operative shoe or boot.
• Pain is managed with prescribed medication.
• Elevation and rest help reduce swelling.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery after DMMO is generally structured as follows:

• 0–2 weeks: Limited weight-bearing with a post-operative shoe or boot.
• 2–6 weeks: Gradual return to normal walking and light activities.
• 6–12 weeks: Full function regained with ongoing physiotherapy and exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and balance.

Follow-up appointments monitor healing, bone alignment, and symptom improvement.

Risks and complications

While DMMO is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Delayed bone healing or non-union.
• Swelling or stiffness in the toes.
• Persistent pain if deformities are severe or other foot issues are present.

Mr. Syed uses minimally invasive techniques and careful post-op care to reduce these risks.

Why choose Mr. Turab Syed in Stirling & Hamilton?

• Specialist in foot and ankle surgery with extensive experience in minimally invasive forefoot procedures.
• Advanced surgical techniques including DMMO to reduce recovery time.
• Personalised care from consultation through post-operative recovery.
• Accessible locations at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton.

FAQs

Is DMMO painful?
Mild discomfort is expected after surgery, but pain is managed with medication and post-operative care.

How long is recovery?
Most patients return to light activities within 2–6 weeks, with full recovery typically achieved by 6–12 weeks.

Will I need physiotherapy?
Yes, physiotherapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and balance in the forefoot.

Can I wear normal shoes after surgery?
Yes, after full recovery, most patients can return to regular footwear comfortably.

Book your consultation

If forefoot pain or toe deformities are affecting your daily life, Distal Metatarsal Metaphyseal Osteotomy with Mr. Turab Syed could provide lasting relief.

Book a consultation today at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling or The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton to discuss your treatment options.