• Contraction of the toe at the mid toe joint

• Can occur on any toe except the big toe

• Toe becomes rigid

What causes it?

• Tightening of the ligaments on the underside of the toes due to muscle problems
• Sometimes associated with arthritis
• Sometimes predisposed to condition through heredity

Signs and Symptoms

• Pronounced downward bending of toe
• Pressure and pain
• Often pain from rubbing against footwear on the top and end of the curled
  toe(s)
• Can lead to pain in other parts of the foot and the development of corns and callus

Prevention and Treatments

• Prescription custom orthotics to help cushion and accommodate for the structural foot changes associated with bunions and help relieve discomfort
• Special padding to offload specific problem areas of the foot, as well as protective gel/cushion pads, shields, toe crests, and splints to protect the toes and reduce friction
• Possibly prescription custom footwear, depending on the severity of the problem
• Warming of the area and/or wax bath therapy to help relieve pain
• Avoid wearing high-heeled and poorly fitting shoes; select shoes with wide, tall toe box

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