Hammertoes and claw toes are two types of toe deformities.
- In a hammertoe deformity, the middle toe joint (PIP, or proximal interphalangeal joint) bends downward.
- In a claw toe deformity, the foot has a bent up metatarsophalangeal (MTP) toe joint with the PIP joint bent downward.
Both types of deformity are commonly commonly caused by a muscle imbalance in the foot as a result of traumatic injury or disease of the toe joints. In the case of hammertoe, poorly fitting shoes can also be a cause.
Treatment options
If left untreated, claw toes and hammertoes can become serious deformities in which the toes cannot be straightened. This can cause pain, calluses, and ulcers on the feet and toes, as well as making it difficult to find shoes that fit.
At UCSD Medical Center, our orthopedic surgeons have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and toe disorders and deformities. Early treatment can include specially-fitted shoes and orthotics which can provide better support .
In cases where deformity has already occurred, surgery may be necessary to straighten the toes.
Arthroplasty: In this procedure, which is used to treat both hammer and claw toes, the surgeon makes an incision along the toe and trims the head of the proximal phalanx, allowing the toe to straighten.
Arthrodesis: In this procedure, two toe bones are fused together, usually the proximal and middle phalanges. The surgeon attaches the bones together with a removable pin to provide stability as the bones fuse.
Tenotomy: With a flexible deformity, the surgeon may release the flexor tendon to allow the toe to straighten.
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