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Claw Toe, Hammer Toe, & Mallet Toe

Even though these conditions are different, they look similar. All deformities are often painful and make shoe fitting difficult.

• Claw Toe involves the base joint (MPJ) that joins the toe to the rest of the foot. This joint is pulled up or extended while the mid-toe joint is flexed, making the toe look like a claw.
• Hammer Toe involves the middle joint (IPP), which is flexed, resulting in a claw-like appearance that looks like the head of a hammer.
• Mallet Toe involves the end joint (IDP), which is flexed, giving the toe a mallet-like appearance.

Claw toes, hammer toes, and mallet toes can sometimes be hereditary or simply the result of trauma due to stubbing your toe. More often, however, these deformities occur slowly over time as the result of muscle and nerve damage due to diabetes, arthritis, stroke, and more. Nerve injury causes tendons to straighten or bend, leading to toe deformities. Some believe that constantly wearing "high" heels or short, narrow shoes with pointed toes initiates these painful toe conditions.

Increased pressure both on the toe joints and the ball of the foot can cause heavy callus build up, so it is important to keep your feet moisturized. In addition, shoes must be properly fit, roomy, and comfortable.The toe area of your footwear should include a deep design and shoes must be wide to accommodate the deformed toes and to reduce friction. Pads can be placed on the toes to cushion and protect pressure points. Custom orthoses are recommended to offer relief in more severe cases.

Finally, if all else fails to provide comfort and relief, surgery may be needed to straighten the joints. In all cases, please consult your physician for specific analysis and treatment.

Shoe Recommendations:

Shoes with a broad and deep toe box are necessary. Select a shoe with the SL-2 last.

• Running: 1123, 993, 883, 817, 587.
• Walking: 927, WW845, 811.
• Cross-Training: 1010.
• Court/Tennis: 803.

Insole Recommendations:

• Pressure Relief IPR3030
• Sport Cushion IMC3210