Claw Toe

What is Claw Toe?

A condition known as claw toe forms because of weak muscles and muscle imbalance in the foot. Any one or several toes may look like they are clawing or digging down into the soles of your foot, giving the condition its name.

This curling of the toe may cause pain at the top side of the toe where there is friction against the shoe and may cause severe pain and/or pressure at the bottom of the toe, where it is often pushed against the sole of the shoe.

Claw Toe Symptoms:

Toes appear bent upwards at the apex of the center joint in the toe. Toes may also be bent downwards and curl under the foot. 

Treatment:

The earlier the diagnosis, the easier it may be to treat.  If you suspect the development of this condition, your Podiatrist should commence treatment. Purchasing footwear that has enough room at the front of the shoe to avoid friction of the toes against the inside of the shoe is also suggested to prevent claw toe.

Your Podiatrist may help you to relieve the pressure and pain caused by the claw toe. They may use splints or tape to hold the toes in the anatomically correct position to relieve the foot from pressure.

Your Podiatrist can also advise you on exercises and stretches to help you loosen out the muscles and tendons in your foot.

Similar Condition:

• Hammertoe