Mallet Toes

A mallet toe is a fixed or flexible flexor contracture of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint of the toe. It usually arises in the longest toe and is idiopathic in nature, but inappropriate shoe wear, iatrogenic causes (after a PIPJ fusion), congenital abnormalities, trauma, neuromuscular disorders, and pes cavus can lead to the deformity. This deformity often leads to pain from calluses or repetitive micro-trauma to the nail plate. Ulcerations and infections may also result due to the deformity.
Conservative treatment focuses on relieving the pressure under the tip of the toe. This can be accomplished with extra-depth or orthopedic shoes. Soft accommodative orthotics or toe protectors are useful. Surgical therapy includes flexor tenotomy; arthroplasty or fusion of the DIP joint; and partial or complete amputation of the distal phalanx where ulcer and infection are persistent.

This material is only provided as helpful information and you should always go to your medical doctor or podiatrist for a professional diagnosis.