What Problems May Result From Claw Toes?
Claw toes may be flexible (easily straightened) or rigid, with stiff joints or tight tendons preventing correction. As seen below, a claw toe deformity can cause increased pressure or friction on the tip of the toe and over the top of the IP joints, due to rubbing against the shoe toe box. When the toe cocks up, the metatarsal bone is pushed downward, resulting in increased pressure under the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia). This increased pressure can result in a thick, painful callus underneath the ball (metatarsophalangeal joint) of that toe. In severe cases of claw toe deformity, shoe wear selection obviously can be severely limited. Treatment of Claw Toes Conservative treatment of claw toes consists of decreasing pressure on the toes. Keeping your skin moisturized is helpful in reducing friction. A roomy, comfortable shoe, with a spacious rounded toe box made with a soft flexible material, will help to decrease the pressure on the toes. Mild claw toe problems may be helped by sil
