Curly Toes

What are curly toes?

Curly toes are a common childhood condition where one or more toes curl under or twist toward the neighbouring toe — most often affecting one or both of the fourth toes. In most children, curly toes present from birth and are simply a variation in toe alignment rather than a problem that needs treatment.

What causes curly toes?

Curly toes are frequently genetic and can run in families. They may also occur when a toe is slightly longer than usual and curls underneath the toe next to it. This is often more noticeable once a child begins to stand and walk, as the muscles and tendons of the foot start working harder.

Common features parents may notice include:

• A toe (commonly the 4th) that curls under or rotates toward the next toe
• The appearance of the toes "gripping" the ground when walking
• One or both feet affected, often symmetrically

In the majority of cases, curly toes from birth are painless and don't interfere with how a child walks, runs or wears shoes.

When should curly toes be assessed?

Many children's curly toes simply need monitoring as they grow, begin walking and start wearing shoes. It's worth having your child reviewed if you notice:

• Curling that appears to worsen as your child walks more
• Toes that look like they're firmly gripping
• Discomfort, skin irritation, or pressure spots from footwear
• Trouble finding shoes that fit comfortably

If the condition seems to progress, it may be influenced by your child's overall foot alignment and mechanics — and that's where a tailored assessment helps.

How does Blueprint Podiatry assess and treat curly toes?

At Blueprint Podiatry in Tuggerah, our podiatry team takes a child-friendly, conservative approach. Every one of our podiatrists holds a Bachelor of Podiatry, training in Foot Mobilisation Therapy, and Level 1 Running Coach certification — so we look closely at how your child's feet move, not just how they look at rest.

A children's podiatry appointment may include:

• A history of when the curly toes were first noticed and any changes over time
• An assessment of foot structure, alignment and how your child walks
• Footwear guidance to reduce pressure on affected toes
• Simple strapping techniques, which can help encourage better toe alignment in young children
• Ongoing monitoring as your child grows

Where foot mechanics are contributing, our team can discuss appropriate options, which may include addressing alignment and movement. We focus on gentle, evidence-informed care to help manage symptoms and support comfortable, confident walking.

Related services

• Customised Orthotics
• Biomechanical Assessment
• Children's Podiatry