Pediatric Hammertoes (Curly Toes)
Symptoms, Causes and Treatment of Children's Hammertoes (Curly Toe)
Pediatric hammertoe occurs when a tendon contracture in the foot pulls on one or more toes, causing the affected toe to either point downward or curl under another toe.
Also known as curly toe, hammertoe in children is fairly common, with the condition usually present since birth. It is more often seen in one or two isolated toes. However, hammertoe may affect all of the child’s toes.
What Are the Symptoms of Pediatric Hammertoe?
The main symptom of pediatric hammertoe is the curl that causes the toe to point downward or fold under a neighboring toe instead of pointing outward.
Although the condition can be painful in adults, hammertoe does not usually cause pain in children. It will, however, become more noticeable as the child grows and begins walking.
Will Pediatric Hammertoe Go Away on its Own?
Unfortunately, children do not outgrow pediatric hammertoe. And the longer the condition is left untreated, the more difficult it becomes to correct. This is because the bones and connective tissue become more rigid as the child grows.
As the child develops, the toe deformity increases. With the loss of flexibility over time, it may alter the growth of the toenail or the shape of the toe bones. When treating pediatric hammertoe, early intervention is critical to ensure a successful outcome.
Pediatric Hammertoe Treatment
To correct pediatric hammertoe, Dr. Jarman performs a simple procedure known as a flexor tenotomy. The doctor begins this in-office procedure by numbing the toe, just as he would to treat an ingrown toenail.
Next, Dr. Jarman identifies the flexor tendon that is causing the toe to curl or hammer. He then releases the tendon, which instantly allows the toe to straighten. This removes all signs of deformity and returns healthy function.
Pediatric Hammertoes FAQ's
Hammertoes are often caused by muscle imbalance, ligament laxity, improper footwear, obesity, or conditions like cerebral palsy in children. There may also be a genetic predisposition.
Hammertoes generally develop during adolescence when the feet are still growing. They are rare in younger children. The second toe is most commonly affected.
Hammertoes can lead to corns, calluses, pain, and difficulty finding well-fitting shoes. Stress on the toe joints can cause arthritis over time. Flexibility and balance may be affected.
Nonsurgical treatment involves wearing shoes with a wide toe box, taping the toe, or using splints to straighten the toe. Surgery to correct tendons and release joints may be required in severe cases.
Wearing properly sized shoes and avoiding narrow, pointed styles is the best prevention. Treating conditions like cerebral palsy early may also help. However, sometimes hammertoes arise spontaneously.
Your Child's Feet Are Designed For Life
