Claw toe is a deformity in which the toes bend upward at the joint near the foot and downward at the smaller toe joints, creating a claw-like appearance. This condition often affects the smaller toes, and may develop gradually. Patients commonly experience pain, stiffness, calluses, and irritation caused by the toes rubbing against shoes. The toes may become difficult to straighten, and walking can feel uncomfortable because of pressure on the ball of the foot and the tops of the toes. Claw toe may be linked to muscle imbalance, nerve damage, or footwear that crowds the toes. In the early stages, the toes may still be flexible, but the deformity can become more rigid if left untreated. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the condition, and determine how it is affecting foot function and balance. Treatment may include wearing wider footwear, padding, targeted exercises, or surgery, in more advanced cases. If you have claw toe deformities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Eveleigh Williams, DPM of Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.