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We provide a comprehensive continuum of cancer services, including prevention, outreach, diagnostic, treatment and support services delivered by our highly skilled staff with compassion and care.
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The Center for Women & Children's Health is a hub for supporting women's and children's individual healthcare needs. The center provides support, research and unmatched patient-centered care.
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Emergency and Trauma Services is the only Level I Trauma Center in the area and serves as the tertiary referral center for medical care in East Tennessee, serving Knox County and 21 surrounding counties.
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The Heart Lung Vascular Institute brings together expertise in clinical care, teaching and research. Patients receive exceptional healthcare combined with patient-centered care.
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Claw foot
Definition
Claw foot is a deformity of the toes in which the toe joint nearest the foot is bent upward and the other toe joints are bent downward. The toe looks like a claw.
See also: Claw hand
Alternative Names
Claw toes
Considerations
Claw toes can be something that a child is born with (congenital) or can develop later in life because of other disorders (acquired). Claw toes may result from a problem with the nerves in the leg or from a spinal cord problem. Many cases have an unknown cause.
Claw toes are not usually dangerous, but they may be the first sign of a more serious disease of the nervous system.
Common Causes
Call your health care provider if
If you think you are developing claw toes, you should contact your health care provider for an evaluation.
What to expect at your health care provider's office
The health care provider will perform a physical examination, and check for muscle, nerve, and spine problems. The physical examination will probably include extra attention to the feet and hands.
You will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms. Questions may include:
- When did you first notice this?
- Is it getting worse?
- Does it affect both feet?
- Do other symptoms occur at the same time?
Special shoes may be recommended to relieve pressure. The abnormal shape of the toe can cause increased pressure and calluses or ulcers on the affected toes. Claw toes can also be treated surgically.
References
Wang D. Claw toe. In: Frontera WR, Silver JK, eds. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2008:chap 78.
Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
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