Definition:

A 'hammer toe' or 'contracted toe' is a deformity of the proximal Interphalangeal articulations of foot of the second, third, or fourth toe causing it to be permanently bent, resembling a hammer. 'Mallet toe' is a similar condition affecting the distal interphalangeal joint. 'Claw toe' is another similar condition, with dorsiflexion of the proximal phalanx on the lesser Metatarsophalangeal articulations, combined with flexion of both the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints. Claw toe can affect the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes.

Symptoms:

• Pain on the top of the toe
• Tight muscles on the plantar side of the toe
• Pain with walking

Causes:

• Wearing poorly fitting shoes that can force the toe into a bent position
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Stroke
• Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
• Diabetes

Treatment:

• Proper fitted shoes
• ROM and stretching exercise
• Soft tissue massage
• Foot intrinsic muscle strengthening