Mallet Toe

Mallet toe occurs when the joint at the end of the toe cannot straighten. This condition causes pressure and discomfort because the toe is angled down against the shoe. And the bend in a mallet toe also makes it rub against the top of your shoe, leading to pain and corns.

Wearing restrictive and poorly fitting footwear aggravates mallet toe, making it even worse. Common reasons for developing a mallet toe are as follows:

• Arthritis
• Bone or muscle imbalance
• Active lifestyles
• Improperly fitting shoes

Any discomfort or pain in your feet should be evaluated by a health physician. Forefoot problems only worsen and inhibit your lifestyle and activity level if they are left untreated. Without the proper attention, mallet toe can cause tissue to breakdown or even infection. The goal for treating mallet toe is to reduce friction and relieve pressure.

Doctors usually recommend:

• wearing shoes with a high and broad toe area (high heels are not a good idea!)
• gel toe shields
• gel toe caps
• toe crest

Mallet toe may result from muscle and nerve damage, so make sure to visit a doctor once you notice the symptoms. Any curled or crooked toes will cause pain when wearing crowded shoes, so you will notice the beginning of mallet toe.