A claw toe, also called claw foot, is a deformity that occurs when the four smaller toes bend into an irregular claw shape, thus the name. Usually, it is a minor issue that can be corrected easily when it occurs as an isolated condition. Sometimes, claw toes may be linked with underlying health issues such as diabetic neuropathy, osteoarthritis, or cerebral palsy.
Corns, blisters, calluses, and infections can occur in the bent toes if the swelling is not treated. Affected toes, which were somewhat flexible, get stiff and are difficult to move or stretch as the condition worsens. Hence, it is recommended that you consult the best orthopedic surgeon in Chandigarh if you notice claw toes.
The following are the causes of claw toe:
A muscular imbalance in the feet results in claw toes caused by the vast contraction of toe muscles. Foot muscle imbalance is caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Foot faults that are genetic or inherited
- Constantly wearing high heels or tight-fitting shoes
- Foot neuropathy caused by diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are debilitating ailments
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other hereditary motor neuropathies
- Trauma and stroke
- Infection with polio
- A tumor of the spinal cord
- Palsy of the brain
The symptoms are
As with turf toes, claw toes are characterized by great pain in the front of the foot and along the heels. Consequently, the bent toes are pressed against the footwear soles or on the ground when standing or walking barefoot.
Diagnosis
During the physical exam, the doctor checks how easily the toes move in both feet. The healthcare provider also looks for corns, calluses, and blisters to check for inflammation or infection in the affected toes.
Symptoms of a pre-existing disorder can cause claw toes. A foot specialist – podiatrists and orthopedic doctors assess the symptoms to see if diabetes, arthritis, or neurological disorders are to blame. To determine if inherited gene defects cause claw toes, the medical expert also asks if the patient has any family history of claw toes.
Final words
This blog gives details about claw toes. It is wise to reach out to Dr. TS Gill, Best Orthopaedic Surgeon in Chandigarh. With an expert, you will eliminate any fear of claw toes treatments.