Understanding Claw Toe: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Claw toe is a prevalent foot condition characterized by toes curling downward, resembling a claw-like shape. This deformity often causes the toes to press against the soles of your shoes, leading to discomfort and the formation of painful calluses. Without proper intervention, claw toe can progressively worsen, potentially resulting in a permanent deformity. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications and improve mobility

Anatomy

The forefoot consists of five toes, with each toe having three joints, except for the big toe, which typically has only two. In cases of claw toe, the affected toe bends abnormally at two key joints: the middle joint, known as the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, and the last joint, called the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint.

Causes

Claw toe is often associated with wearing footwear that constrains the toes, such as high heels or shoes that are too short. However, it is also commonly linked to nerve damage caused by conditions like diabetes, stroke, or chronic alcoholism, which weaken the foot's muscles over time. Additionally, trauma or chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of this deformity.

Symptoms

Signs of claw toe include upward bending (extension) of the toe at the joints near the ball of the foot, combined with downward bending (flexion) at the middle joint toward the sole of the shoe. In some cases, the top joint of the toe may also curl downward, causing the toe to tuck under the foot. This abnormal positioning often leads to the formation of corns on the top of the toe or calluses under the ball of the foot, resulting in discomfort or pain.  

This claw toe digs down toward the sole of the shoe.