Understanding Toe Deformities: Hammertoe & Claw Toe

Toe deformities, such as hammertoe and claw toe, are common foot conditions that can cause discomfort, pain, and impact mobility. These conditions are often misunderstood, as many assume they are caused solely by wearing poorly fitting shoes. While tight shoes and high heels can contribute to these deformities, other factors such as nerve damage or muscle imbalances may also be at play.

One such deformity, claw toe, can result from nerve damage caused by diseases like diabetes or alcoholism, which weaken the muscles in the foot. This condition can cause the toes to "claw" or dig into the soles of your shoes, leading to painful calluses and worsening over time if left untreated.

Symptoms of Claw Toe

• Toes bent upward (extension) at the joints near the ball of the foot.
• Toes bent downward (flexion) at the middle joints, curling toward the sole.
• In some cases, the toes bend downward at the top joints, causing them to curl under the foot.
• Corns may develop on top of the toes or under the ball of the foot due to friction with shoes.

Treatment Options

Claw toe deformities are often flexible at first but can harden into place if not treated early. There are various treatments available to alleviate discomfort and prevent the condition from progressing.

Non-Surgical Treatments:

• Splinting or Taping: In the early stages, your doctor may recommend using a splint or tape to help keep your toes in the correct position.
• Footwear Adjustments: Wear shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes and avoid tight shoes or high heels. Shoes that provide extra room for your toes can help prevent further irritation.
• Stretching and Exercising Toes: Use your hands to stretch your toes and toe joints back toward their normal positions. Additionally, you can strengthen the muscles in your foot by exercising your toes, such as by picking up marbles or crumpling a towel on the floor.
• Orthotics: Custom orthotics, such as shoe inserts, can provide essential support by redistributing pressure away from sensitive areas like the ball of the foot. These orthotics are designed to alleviate pain by balancing weight across the foot, offering cushioning, and improving alignment. Orthotics can also help prevent further deformity progression by ensuring your foot is properly supported throughout the day.
• Special Shoes: Try "in-depth" shoes that provide an extra 3/8" of depth in the toe box to accommodate the deformity.

Surgical Treatments: If these non-surgical treatments do not provide relief or the deformity worsens, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice symptoms of claw toe or experience persistent foot pain, it's important to seek medical evaluation. Your doctor may perform tests to rule out neurological disorders or other underlying conditions that could be contributing to the deformity. Trauma, inflammation, and other issues can also cause claw toe, so an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

At The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center, our team of orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists is highly experienced in diagnosing and treating toe deformities. We offer both non-surgical and surgical solutions, helping you find the best treatment for your individual needs.