CLAW TOES

Claw toe is a fairly common condition that is often the result of nerve damage that weakens the muscles in your foot. Having “claw toes” means the bottom half of your toe points up and the top half curls downward like an eagle’s claw. Claw toes, which usually affect the four smaller toes, can be caused by wearing tight shoes, as well as by arthritis and diabetic nerve damage. Claw toes can be flexible or rigid. If your claw toes are flexible, you can use your hand to straighten the joints. Rigid claw toes are very painful and cannot be straightened by hand. Without treatment, claw toes may get worse and toes may become permanently deformed.

SYMPTOMS

• Your toes are bent at the middle and top joints

• Your toes hurt

• It's hard to find shoes that fit

• You may see calluses or corns on your toes

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT

Wearing Toe Loops to keep toes straight and cushioned is helpful. Shoes should be soft and roomy. The front part should be wide enough to accommodate your toes without squashing them together.

PRODUCTS THAT CAN HELP