Problems with the toes and feet are common, and they may cause uncomfortable symptoms and limited mobility. Mallet, hammer, and claw toes occur when the joints in the feet bend abnormally. Here's what to know about these conditions and how a podiatrist can help.

Causes

In each of the four smaller toes, there are three joints. Wearing tight shoes may force toes to remain in bent positions, causing the muscles to tighten and tendons to shorten. Eventually, this can result in the permanent bending of toes.   

Mallet toe occurs when the toe bends downward at the joint closest to the tip of the toe, causing this joint to curl upward. Hammer toe develops when the toe bends downward at the middle joint, which rises abnormally. Both conditions most commonly affect the second toe but may occur in any of the other small toes. 

Claw toe, on the other hand, affects all four small toes simultaneously. It occurs when the toes bend upward at the joint where the toes meet the feet, and then bend downward at the middle and subsequent joints, causing the toes to form a deep upward curve.

Wearing narrow shoes and high heels can increase the likelihood of developing mallet, hammer, or claw toes. Additionally, those who have experienced foot injuries or a stroke, or who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, may be more susceptible to developing bent ones. 

Symptoms

One of the most obvious symptoms is the visible misshapenness of the toes. You might also feel pain and discomfort in the toes, joints, or balls of the feet. 

Bent or curved toes can make it difficult to fit your feet into shoes; ill-fitting shoes might cause your feet and toes to rub against the insides of your footwear, producing corns and calluses. Mallet, hammer, and claw toes might also make it challenging to keep your balance or walk normally. 

Treatment

A podiatrist can diagnose these problems by performing a physical exam or taking x-rays. They may first recommend non-surgical approaches to straighten the toes. This often includes the creation of custom orthotics, which are cushioned shoe inserts created based on scans, casts, or impressions of the feet. 

Wearing them may straighten the toes over time. Your doctor might also suggest wearing shoes with a wider toe box, low heels, and enhanced arch support to take pressure off the toes and get them back into a normal shape.  

In more severe instances, reconstructive surgery might be necessary for correcting the shape of the toes. This typically involves removing part of the toe joint or bone to eliminate abnormal bending or curvature.

If you ever notice signs of toe problems, contact St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samuel T. Wood-DPM. This podiatrist offers treatment for foot and ankle conditions, including custom orthotics and reconstructive surgery, to clients throughout St. Charles and St. Louis Counties. Call (636) 720-0190 to book an appointment with this foot doctor and visit the website to learn more about how they can help you experience relief.