What condition involves the DIP joint being plantarflexed?

The condition in which the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint is plantarflexed is known as mallet toe. In mallet toe, the abnormal positioning occurs when the DIP joint is flexed downward, which leads to the tip of the toe being curled in a plantarflexed position. This condition typically affects the second, third, or fourth toes and can result from muscle imbalance or wearing ill-fitting shoes.

In contrast, the other conditions listed have different characteristics. Hammer toe involves the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint being in a flexed position while the DIP remains straight. Claw toe features both the MTP and PIP joints being hyperextended with the DIP flexed, showing a different pattern of deformity than mallet toe. Bunionette, on the other hand, refers to a bony bump on the outside of the foot at the fifth toe and does not involve the characteristic joint flexion seen in the other toe deformities.

Understanding the specific anatomy and mechanics of these toe conditions clarifies why mallet toe is identified by the plantarflexion of the DIP joint.