What does a Hammer Toe involve?

What does a Hammer Toe involve?

• A. Flexion deformity of DIP
• B. Fixed extension of the MTP joint
• C. Flexion deformity of the PIP
• D. Multiple toes affected

Answer: (C)

A Hammer Toe is characterized by a flexion deformity at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint while the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint generally remains in a normal or slightly extended position. This condition often arises from an imbalance of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that maintain the position of the toe, leading to the toe bending downwards at the PIP joint. The deformity can cause discomfort and difficulty in wearing shoes, and often progresses if not addressed. While a Hammer Toe primarily affects the PIP joint, it is important to note that the other options describe different conditions or anomalies not representative of Hammer Toe itself. For instance, a flexion deformity of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint typically relates to a different toe deformity, while a fixed extension of the MTP joint would suggest conditions like a claw toe. Although multiple toes can be affected by similar issues, Hammer Toe itself is identified specifically by the flexion deformity at the PIP joint of one or more toes, but the defining characteristic remains the PIP position.

A Hammer Toe is characterized by a flexion deformity at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint while the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint generally remains in a normal or slightly extended position. This condition often arises from an imbalance of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that maintain the position of the toe, leading to the toe bending downwards at the PIP joint. The deformity can cause discomfort and difficulty in wearing shoes, and often progresses if not addressed.

While a Hammer Toe primarily affects the PIP joint, it is important to note that the other options describe different conditions or anomalies not representative of Hammer Toe itself. For instance, a flexion deformity of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint typically relates to a different toe deformity, while a fixed extension of the MTP joint would suggest conditions like a claw toe. Although multiple toes can be affected by similar issues, Hammer Toe itself is identified specifically by the flexion deformity at the PIP joint of one or more toes, but the defining characteristic remains the PIP position.