Conditions

Definition

A claw toe is a toe that is contracted at the Proximal and distal Interphalangel joints (middle and end toe joints), and can lead to severe pressure and pain. Ligaments and tendons that have tightened cause the toe's joints to curl downwards. Claw toes may occur in any toe, except the big toe. There is often discomfort at the top part of the toe that is rubbing against the shoe and at the end of the toe that is pressed against the bottom of the shoe.
Claw toes are classified based on the mobility of the toe joints. There are two types - flexible and rigid. In a flexible claw toe, the joint has the ability to bend. This type of claw toe can be straightened manually.
A rigid claw toe does not have the same ability to bend. Movement is very limited and can be extremely painful. This sometimes causes foot movement to become restricted leading to extra stress at the ball-of-the-foot, and on the ends of the toes, possibly causing pain and the development of corns and calluses.

Cause

Claw toes result from a muscle imbalance, which causes the ligaments and tendons to become unnaturally tight or contracted. This results in the joints curling downwards. Arthritis can also lead to many different forefoot deformities, including claw toes.

Treatment and Prevention

Changing the type of footwear worn is a very important step in the treatment of claw toes. When choosing a shoe, make sure the toe box (toe area) is high and broad enough, and can accommodate the claw toes. A shoe with a high, broad toe box will provide enough room in the forefoot area so that there is less friction and pressure on the toes.
Other conservative treatments include toe splints or props, that will help support the claw toes and provide relief to the forefoot. Silicone toe shields and gel toe caps are also recommended to reduce friction and pressure between the shoe and the toe.
If the problem persists, consult your Podiatrist.