One of the more common issues I see clients for is corns or pain on the tips of the toes while walking. There are several types of toe deformities that can cause this and a few of the more common ones are: Hammer Toes, Claw Toes, and Mallet Toes. 

Hammer toe: a toe that is permanently flexed downward due to a contraction of the proximal interphalangeal joint  (PIP) (Core Curriculum Wound Management, 2016). The joint is difficult to straighten if it is able to at all.  It tends to result in corns developing on the top of the toe.  They can be hereditary or caused as a result of bunions. 

Claw Toe: caused by flexion contractures involving the PIP joint and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints (Core Curriculum Wound Management, 2016).  This results in a “claw shaped” toe giving it its name.These tend to result in corns on the tips and tops of the toe. 

Mallet Toe: flexed deformity due to the contracture of the DIP joint.  It tends to result in corns on the tip of the toe (Core Curriculum Wound Management, 2016).

Claw toes and Mallet toes are often seen in those with diseases related to motor neuron neuropathy and muscle imbalance like diabetes (S. Tremble B.Sc.N, 2015.  Nursing Foot Care (p44).) 

One cause that all of these have in common is improper fitting foot wear.  This can be shoes that are too large so the toes are constantly “gripping” or too small so the toes are being squished together. Proper fitting shoes are very important in the prevention of many different deformations and causes of pain in the foot. 

What can you do to help reduce the discomfort of these? You guessed it, proper fitting foot wear!  There are also supports for your toes to release pressure on the tips with walking or wearing footwear. Routine visits with your Dr., podiatrist, and foot care nurse to monitor and advise as well as provide any care for things like corns or calluses that can result in pain, issues with mobility and potential wounds.  In some more extreme cases surgery can be performed.