Claw toes is a foot disorder described as a claw-like foot deformity which resembles that of a bird. Some are born with this condition while other acquire this later in life. It can be caused by several factors. An underlying disease or an injury that affects foot muscles and nerves. It is advised that you consult a podiatrist when the first signs of a claw toe is observed.

People suffering from claw toes may experience pain especially when wearing tight-fitting shoes. This foot deformity make wearing shoes painful. Claw toes are sometimes mistaken for hammertoes another foot deformity. But at closer look hammertoes and claw toes are visibly different.

Visit a podiatrist when possible signs of claw feet are observed.  If you find moving toes difficult then this could be a symptom of muscle or nerve injury. A podiatrist may recommend a series of tests to determine the underlying cause of your claw toes. This can include muscle or nerve damage and even be caused by a disease Dr. Jonathan Kletz is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people with claw toes.

What can cause claw toes?

Claw toes can be a possible symptom of a disease or injury. Wearing tight shoes can also be a factor in the development of claw toes. Although wearing tight shoes does not directly lead to the development of claw toes, side effects such as muscle and joint injury can cause claw toes. Below are medical conditions that may increase your risk for claw toes.

• Alcoholism
• Arthritis
• Cerebral palsy
• Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
• Polio
• Spinal cord disease
• Stroke

Claw toes make it difficult if not painful for us to wear shoes. This toe deformity gives our foot an unusual shape which is unable to fit comfortable with the shoes’ normal contour. It can also cause corns and calluses because the skin constantly rubs against the shoes. Calluses and corns can be treated by over-the-counter products to soften the skin.

Treatment and management of claw toes

• Use therapeutic shoes with large and soft toe box
• Toe strengthening and flexion exercises
• Gentle toe massages to increase blood flow and improve flexibility
• Callus and corn management

At Texas Foot Works located in Dallas, Athens and Gun Barrell City, TX, we specialize in helping people with claw toes.  To schedule an appointment, call 214-340-8885.