Curly toes are a common finding in young children.
Curly toes often stand out and appear as the name says, toes curled and stacked on top or under another toe. These are commonly found in the 3rd,4th, and 5th toes.
In this article, we will discuss the causes and different kinds of treatment for curly toes in children.
What causes curly toes?
Curly toes are caused by tightness in the tendons on the bottom of the foot that causes the toes to curl. These tendons are known as flexor tendons.
Aside from the cosmesis, curly toes are often benign. These toes often straighten on their own as the child grows.
Do you need to see a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon?
Treatment of curly toes
Nonoperative treatment.
The mainstay of treatment for curly toes is observation. For most children, this condition resolves as they get older.
Surgical treatment
This can include the surgical release of the tight tendons. Surgery is done in children who are having persistent toe problems.
When should curly toes be operated on?
Surgery for curly toes is indicated if there are ;
- Toenail problems like frequent nail infections
- Blisters at the tips of the toes from pressure.
- If there is any pain in the toes as a result of the curly toes.
In conclusion, curly toes are common in babies but resolve as the children grow. They often require no treatment but if they become symptomatic in older children, surgery can be done.
