When to Seek Treatment for Mallet Toe

Any condition or injury that affects the joints can cause mallet toe. At Cascade Foot & Ankle in Provo and Nephi, Utah, our team provides care for patients with a range of foot problems, including mallet toe — a common foot deformity that affects the second, third, fourth, or fifth toe. A deformity of the muscles and ligaments of one of the proximal interphalangeal joints causes the toes to appear curled instead of straight. 

Our board-certified podiatric surgeon, Jared Clegg, DPM, FACFAS, provides individualized treatment plans for mallet toe that may include bracing, footwear changes, or surgery. Treatment depends on symptoms, severity of the deformity, and whether it impacts your ability to walk comfortably. 

While mallet toe may seem like a minor issue, it can lead to significant problems if left untreated. Understanding when to seek treatment is crucial for maintaining your foot health and preventing complications. Let’s discuss some signs that it’s time to seek treatment. 

Early signs and symptoms

Initially, mallet toe typically appears as a slight bend in your toe, with little to no pain. At this early stage, many people continue with their lives without seeking treatment. You might notice redness or swelling around the affected joint, which can worsen with prolonged standing or walking. 

As the condition progresses, patients tend to start experiencing some level of discomfort or pain, particularly when wearing shoes that press against the bent toe. Corns or calluses can develop on the top of the toe due to constant friction and pressure, causing further irritation.

Even in the early stages, it’s a good idea to see a foot and ankle specialist. Dr. Clegg often recommends conservative measures at this point, such as changing footwear or using toe pads for extra cushion. It’s important to know that these solutions may only provide temporary relief. If the condition worsens, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity. 

When to seek professional help

You should consider seeking professional help for mallet toe if it’s causing you moderate to severe pain, if you’re having trouble walking, or if you’re finding it challenging to find proper-fitting shoes. It’s also a good idea to see a podiatrist if you notice that the bend in your toe is becoming more pronounced or if you're developing corns, calluses, or open sores that are slow to heal.

Dr. Clegg can offer a comprehensive evaluation of your foot health and recommend appropriate treatments to address your symptoms and prevent further complications. Avoid waiting until symptoms or the deformity becomes severe. Having your foot evaluated early can prevent additional foot issues. 

Treatment options

Our team offers a range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs and the severity of your mallet toe. 

Mild mallet toe

For mild cases, nonsurgical treatments such as custom orthotics, toe splints, or physical therapy may be effective in relieving symptoms and improving your toe's alignment.

Advanced mallet toe

In more advanced cases that haven’t responded adequately to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformed toe joint, and restore your foot's function. There are various surgical approaches to correct the joint deformity. Dr. Clegg chooses the appropriate surgical approach after completing a comprehensive evaluation.

Moving forward with confidence

If you're experiencing symptoms of mallet toe, don't wait for the condition to worsen. Contact us at Cascade Foot & Ankle today to schedule a consultation with our team for personalized care and expert guidance. We can help you get back on your feet.