Mallet toe deformity

Last revised by Henry Knipe on 9 Nov 2022

Mallet toes are an isolated flexion deformity of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) of the foot.

Pathology

Mallet toe is often attributed to tightness in shoes where flexion of the DIPJ initially is a result of direct pressure from the shoe but eventually, the flexor digitorum longus tendon tightens and contracts, causing the deformity to be fixed 1. Other causes include inflammatory arthritis 2. Acute mallet toe can occur with extensor tendon injury or avulsion 2.

Associations

They may be associated with callosities on the tip of the toe and pressure on the nail 1.

See also

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