What is a "Claw Toe", anyway?

Claw toe

is also known as claw foot. This occurs when your first toe joint points up and the second joint points down.

Claw toe can occur suddenly or may be apparent at birth. The condition may or may not cause pain and discomfort, and it can be a sign of a more serious medical condition like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or cerebral palsy.

You may never know what causes claw toe, but it’s important for your doctor to diagnose and treat the condition.

Treatments include proper shoes, splints, toe exercises, medications, and surgery.