Hammer Toe

This is essentially a plantarflexion deformity of the proximal interphalangeal joint, the distal interphalangeal joint remaining normal or possibly dorsiflexed. It occurs in any of the three middle toes, second being the most commonly affected.

Symptoms

• Your toes are bent upward (extension) from the joints at the ball of the foot.
• Your toes are bent downward (flexion) at the middle joints toward the sole of your shoe.
• Sometimes your toes also bend downward at the top joints, curling under the foot.
• Corns may develop over the top of the toe or under the ball of the foot.

Evaluation

If you have symptoms of a claw toe, see your foot specialist for evaluation. You may need certain tests to rule out neurological disorders that can weaken your foot muscles, creating imbalances that bend your toes. Trauma and inflammation can also cause claw toe deformity.

Treatment

Claw toe deformities are usually flexible at first, but they harden into place over time. If you have claw toe in early stages, your specialist may recommend an orthotic or tape to hold your toes in correct position. Additional advice:

• Wear shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes and avoid tight shoes and high-heels.
• Use your hands to stretch your toes and toe joints toward their normal positions.
• Exercise your toes by using them to pick up marbles or crumple a towel laid flat on the floor.

If you have claw toe in later stages and your toes are fixed in position:

• A special pad can redistribute your weight and relieve pressure on the ball of your foot.
• Try special "in depth" shoes that have an extra 3/8" depth in the toe box.
• Ask a shoe repair shop to stretch a small pocket in the toe box to accommodate the deformity.
• Orthotic management.