Mallet toe deformity is a unique condition affecting toe joints and is often hidden until pain emerges. In this article, we will discuss what mallet toes are and how podiatric services can help.
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Mallet toe is one of the lesser toe deformities that manifest in an upward bend at the toe joint, giving them a curled appearance. Mallet toes are more common in the second toe (after the big toe) because they are often the longest of the four smaller toes. However, it is also possible to affect the third and fourth toes.
Mallet toe occurs in the third toe joint called the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ). When the muscle called the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) becomes too tight, it can bend one of the toe joints upward.
There are two types of mallet toe:
Hammer toes, claw toes, and mallet toes are all foot deformities that affect joints in the toe. Even though they all are a result of imbalances in the foot muscles, there are some differences. They include the following:
Mallet toes can develop for several different reasons:
The toe curling at the last toe joint is the most obvious symptom of a mallet toe. Other symptoms of mallet toes may also include:
You are at a higher risk of developing complications when you have mallet toe and diabetes. Diabetes is known to cause circulation problems in your feet and toes, as well as nerve damage. This can cause corns or calluses to turn into blisters or sores. These can then worsen into open wounds and get infected or lead to gangrene.
Mallet toes are usually diagnosed by your primary care physician (PCP) or podiatrist (a foot and ankle doctor). Mallet toes are usually diagnosed through a physical exam. Your doctor will check to see if you’re putting excessive pressure or stress on the affected toe.
Your doctor may also order imaging tests such as an X-ray. This will rule out any possible toe fractures.
You can usually treat mallet toes with conservative treatments. Surgery is usually only necessary in severe cases or with rigid mallet toe.
Conservative treatments for mallet toe include the following:
If you have diabetes, you will need to take some extra steps to care for your feet. This will include:
Surgery is sometimes necessary to restore proper alignment in the toe joint. Mallet toe surgery can include the following:
Maintaining good foot health can help prevent the development of mallet toes. Try the following tips:
Mallet toe is not usually a medical emergency. However, you should contact your doctor right away if:
Contact one of our expert doctors if you are dealing with persistent foot pain or concerned with any other foot or ankle condition. We have many locations throughout Columbus, Ohio. Our doctors look forward to helping you with your foot and ankle issues.
Medically reviewed by Terrence M. Philbin, DO
