Overlapping or Curled Toes in Newborns
The short answer
Overlapping or curled toes in newborns are very common and usually harmless. They are often caused by the baby's position in the womb and typically straighten out on their own as the child grows and begins walking. The fifth (pinkie) toe overlapping the fourth toe is particularly common and rarely requires treatment.
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By Age
What to expect by age
Overlapping, curled, or crooked toes are very common in newborns and are usually related to how the baby was positioned in the womb. The most common presentation is the fifth toe curling under or overlapping the fourth toe. These toe positions are flexible and can be gently straightened, which confirms they are positional rather than structural. No taping, splinting, or treatment is needed at this age.
The toes may still appear curled or overlapping, which continues to be normal. As your baby kicks and moves their feet more, the toes gradually begin to straighten. You do not need to do anything special to correct the position. Avoid tight-fitting socks or shoes that could restrict natural movement.
Toes typically continue to straighten as your baby grows. You may still notice some curling, especially when your baby flexes their feet. This remains a normal variation. If any toe appears rigid, fixed, or cannot be gently straightened, mention it to your pediatrician.
As your baby begins to stand and bear weight, the toes usually straighten further. Most overlapping and curled toes resolve by the time your child is walking regularly. If toes remain significantly overlapping and are causing problems with shoe fit or walking, your pediatrician may refer to a pediatric orthopedist, though this is uncommon.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Toes that curl or overlap but can be gently straightened (flexible)
- Both feet are affected similarly
- Baby does not appear to be in pain or bothered by the toe position
- Gradual improvement as baby grows and becomes more active
- A toe is rigid and cannot be gently straightened
- The overlapping or curling seems to be getting worse rather than better
- You notice swelling, redness, or skin irritation between overlapping toes
- Sudden swelling, redness, or pain in any toe that could indicate injury or infection
- A toe appears discolored or has compromised blood flow
Sources
Related Resources
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician.
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Related Physical Concerns
My Baby Curls Their Toes
Toe curling is very common in babies and is usually caused by the plantar grasp reflex, which is a normal newborn reflex that causes toes to curl when the sole of the foot is touched. This reflex typically fades by 9-12 months. Occasional toe curling during standing or walking is also normal as babies figure out their balance. Persistent, tight toe curling past 12 months may warrant a mention to your pediatrician.
Normal Bowed Legs in Newborns
Bowed legs in newborns and infants are completely normal and expected. This is called physiologic bowing and results from the curled-up position your baby was in inside the womb. The legs gradually straighten on their own as your child grows and begins to walk, typically by age 2-3. No treatment is needed for normal physiologic bowing.
My Baby Was Born with Clubfoot
Clubfoot (talipes equinovarus) is a condition where one or both feet are turned inward and downward at birth. It affects about 1 in 1,000 babies and is very treatable. The Ponseti method, which uses gentle casting and bracing, corrects clubfoot in over 95% of cases without major surgery. Treatment typically starts within the first few weeks of life for best results.
My Baby Seems to Use One Side More Than the Other
Babies should use both sides of their body fairly equally during the first 18 months of life. While slight preferences can be normal, a consistent pattern of favoring one side - using one arm much more than the other, crawling with one leg dragging, or turning the head predominantly one way - should always be discussed with your pediatrician. Early identification of asymmetry leads to the best outcomes.
My Baby Only Army Crawls
Army crawling (also called commando crawling) is a completely valid and normal way for babies to move. Many babies army crawl for weeks or even months before transitioning to hands-and-knees crawling, and some skip hands-and-knees crawling entirely. What matters is that your baby is independently mobile and exploring their environment.
One Side of My Baby's Body Moves Differently
Babies should generally use both sides of their body equally. If one side consistently moves differently, is weaker, stiffer, or less coordinated, this warrants evaluation. Asymmetric movement can indicate hemiplegia (cerebral palsy affecting one side), brachial plexus injury, or other neurological conditions that benefit from early therapy.