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Information for Patients

From the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

The Foot and Ankle

Foot Pain

Problemas Comunes de los Pies (Common foot problems)

Hammer and Claw Toe Deformity

by Emilio Wagner, MD

A hammer toe is defined as a lesser toe that has a flexion deformity at the proximal interphalangeal. Frequently, the metatarsophalangeal joint is hyperextended, and the distal interphalangeal joint may be flexed, extended, or in a neutral position. The condition often is painful, and a painful callus may develop on the skin over the interphalangeal joints and on the tip of the toe from rubbing against the shoe. For flexible deformities, conservative treatment is recommended and may include toe stretching exercises, gauze padding to protect the toes, changing footwear, and the use of shoe inserts. Surgery is indicated if conservative measures fail to provide sufficient pain relief and depends on the flexibility and magnitude of the deformity.

Keywords: claw toe, hammer toe, deformed toe, lesser toe deformity, deformity of the lesser toes, push-up test, flexor-to-extensor tendon transfer, Weil osteotomy,PIP joint arthrodesis, DuVries arthroplasty, MTP joint release

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