Lesser Toe Deformities

Courtesy: Prof Nabil Ebraheim

Deformities of the toes are not uncommon. They can occur from muscle imbalance or other causes such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, compartment syndrome, synovitis or neurological disorder.

Hammer toe
The PIP is flexed and the metatarsophalangeal joint is extended. Hammer’s toe is similar to the Boutonniere deformity of the finger.

Claw Toe
Flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint and proximal interphalangeal joint with hyperextension of the metatarsophalangeal joint. Similar to the shape of a pirate hook. Also similar to intrinsic minus deformity of the hand.

Mallet toe
Flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint. Similar in appearance to mallet finger.
Patient examples of claw toe and claw toe with foot fasciotomy.