Claw foot is a description of a foot in which the bones at the base of the toe point upwards and the others point down. The up and down view of the toes, which are usually more or less flat, makes the foot look like a claw.

The sufferer will endure pain in walking and find running difficult. Shoes and clothes will be difficult with feet shaped like this and the patient may also suffer instability if the effect is on one foot only. About half of all sufferers endure the condition on both feet at the same time.

In a minority of cases the condition is related to a short calf muscle or Achilles tendon tipping the foot up at the heel a little. Alternatively, it can be a direct result of being born with a very high arch within the foot, forcing the toes down and then up in a claw fashion.

Those with cerebral palsy or arthritis are often prone to this condition as they already suffer a lack of balance and the distorted way of walking may cause the problem.

Some people suffer this condition as a result of direct physical trauma or blow and some children exhibit this condition following damage in the womb.

Although the true cause of claw foot is often not clear, many people believe there is some temporary damage to the external plantar nerve which serves the ball of the foot.

The normal foot is almost flat, retaining just enough curve to allow muscles in the sole to work and provide some natural spring for movement. In claw foot, the arch is such that pressure and stress is placed on the foot at all times. Sufferers are therefore more prone to stress fractures in the foot area.

Orthopedic advice is essential.