Definition
A claw toe is a toe that is contracted at the PIP and DIP joints (middle and end joints in the toe), and can lead to severe pressure and pain. Ligaments and tendons that have tightened cause the toe’s joints to curl downwards. Claw toes may occur in any toe, except the big toe. There is often discomfort at the top part of the toe that is rubbing against the shoe and at the end of the toe that is pressed against the bottom of the shoe.

Claw toes are classified based on the mobility of the toe joints. There are two types - flexible and rigid. In a flexible claw toe, the joint has the ability to move. This type of claw toe can be straightened manually.

A rigid claw toe does not have that same ability to move. Movement is very limited and can be extremely painful. This sometimes causes foot movement to become restricted leading to extra stress at the ball-of-the-foot, and possibly causing pain and the development of corns and calluses.

Cause
Claw toes result from a muscle imbalance which causes the ligaments and tendons to become unnaturally tight. This results in the joints curling downwards. Arthritis can also lead to many different forefoot deformities, including claw toes.

Treatment & Prevention
Changing the type of footwear worn is a very important step in the treatment of claw toes. When choosing a shoe, make sure the toe box (toe area) is high and broad, and can accommodate the claw toes. A shoe with a high, broad toe box will provide enough room in the forefoot area so that there is less friction against the toes.

Other conservative treatments include using forefoot products designed to relieve claw toes, such as toe crests and hammer toe splints. These devices will help hold down the claw toe and provide relief to the forefoot. Gel toe shields and gel toe caps are also recommended to eliminate friction between the shoe and the toe, while providing comfort and lubrication.

If the problem persists, consult your foot doctor.

Products For Immediate Relief
A claw toe is a toe that is contracted at the PIP and DIP joints (middle and end joints in the toe), and can lead to severe pressure and pain. Ligaments that have tightened cause the toe's joints to curl downwards. This can cause discomfort at the top part of the toe that is rubbing against the shoe. Movement is very limited and can be extremely painful.

Hammer Toe Splint (2 Loops)

Hammer Toe Splints (2 loops) were designed by a doctor with an extra loop to relieve the discomfort of hammer toes. Cushions ball-of-foot and the adjustable elastic rings slide over your toes for comfortable realignment. Designed to fit in all footwear styles.

Gel Toe Shield

Gel Toe Shields relieve pain caused by friction, blisters, and corns, and protect your toes from rubbing against each other and your shoes. The Gel softens and lubricates your skin. Dermatologist tested.

Gel Toe Cap

Gel Toe Caps are clinically proven to provide immediate relief from common toe problems, including ingrown toenails, hammer toes, and claw toes. Tested by dermatologists, the unique Gel moistens and softens your skin.

Gel Toe Crest

Gel Toe Crests offer relief from pain caused by hammer, claw, or mallet toes. The crest fits comfortably between the ballof- your-foot and toes, relieving pressure from the toe area.