Toe deformities are fairly common chronic conditions of the foot. These ailments are often caused by a muscle imbalance in the foot. This can be caused by several factors such as flatfeet, tight calf muscles, a traumatic injury, or disease of the toe joints.
The muscle imbalance results in the flexor muscles continually pulling the ends of the toes down while the extensor muscles continually pull the toes up. In the short term this can result in deformity or change in position of the toes, and can progress to a fixed deformity over time.
- Mallet toe: clawing that occurs at the very end joint of the toe
- Claw toe: clawing that occurs in both toe joints.
- Hammertoe: upward positioning of toe where it joins the foot with contracture through both toe joints.
If left untreated, these ailments can lead to other problems such as calluses or breakdown of the skin. Early treatment can help prevent the need for surgery. Contact our office today to schedule an evaluation.