Biomechanical Foot Orthotic Fabrication, Video Treadmill Gait Analysis,
Biomechanical Evaluations, Second Opinions
Illustration Of Condition
Description
Claw toe is a deformity of the proximal phalanx and the distal phalanx
of the affected toe. The deformities may be fixed or flexible. Pain is
present at the top of the proximal phalanx and is a common site of
calluses due to rubbing on the top of the shoes toe-box lining. The
distal phalanx points downward and can get callus on the tip of the
toe and become very painful.
A hammer toe is a flexion deformity of the interphalangeal joint
of the affected toe. The deformity may be fixed or flexible. Any
toe may be affected, but the second toe is more common. The proximal
phalanx points upwards and can hit the top of the shoes toe-box
lining. This is very common with bunions and hallux valgus as the
big toe angles towards and under the second toe. This forces the
second toe into a hammer toe. The top of the toe is a common site
of calluses and can be very painful.
Shoes with a low heel and a broad and deep toe box should be worn.
Custom orthotics can provide relief if they address biomechanical
concerns and have good transverse metatarsal support. Appropriate
stretching exercises should be started as soon as possible. Toe
grasping and strengthening exercise should also be done to strengthen
the intrinsic musculature of the foot. Heat moldable shoes are
available that can be customized for each individual foot. The top
of the toe box can be raised over a specific toe if so desired.
P.T.I. stocks silicone sleeves that slide over the top or tip of
the toes. These sleeves are lined with a medical grade silicone gel
to absorb shear and friction. The silicone gel is impregnated with
a medical grade mineral oil to soften calluses. Ask your health
care professional what will work best for you.
P.T.I. Orthotic Laboratory
2805 Wilderness Pl., Ste-400
Boulder, CO. 80301
Ph# 303-443-9999
Fax# 303-443-4468
Disclaimer: All information published by P.T.I. Orthotic Laboratory or ptiorthotics.com is provided solely for general information and shall not be construed as an attempt to practice medicine or provide specific medical advice and should not be used to make a diagnosis or to replace or overrule a physician, or qualified health care provider's judgment. We strongly encourage users to consult with a physician or qualified health care professional for answers to personal health questions.