Webbed toes
Are characterised by the fusion of two or more digits of the feet. This is normal in many birds - such as ducks, amphibians - such as frogs, and mammals - such as kangaroos. In humans it is considered unusual, occurring in approximately one in 2,000 to 2,500 live births. There are various levels of webbing, from partial to complete. Most commonly the second and third toes are webbed or joined by skin and flexible tissue. This can reach either part way up or nearly all the way up the toe.
Diagnosis
This condition is normally discovered at birth. If other symptoms are present these may define a specific syndrome. Diagnosis of which is based on a family history, medical history, and a physical exam.
Cause
The exact cause of the condition is unknown, it often runs in families, and is thought to be genetic. The scientific name for the condition is syndactyly, although this covers both webbed fingers and toes. The most common causes are:
It is also associated with a number of rare conditions, notably:
- Acrocallosal syndrome
- Apert's syndrome
- Aarskog syndrome
- Bardet-Biedl syndrome
- Carpenter's syndrome
- Cornelia de Lange syndrome
- Jackson-Weiss syndrome
- Fetal hydantoin effect
- Miller Syndrome
- Pfeiffer syndrome
- Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome
- Timothy syndrome
Consequences
Webbing is considered more of a cosmetic problem than a functional one. Walking, running or swimming should not be affected. There is no evidence that it improves swimming ability.
Psychological damage may arise from the fear of negative reactions to the condition. Many individuals remain extremely self-conscious about their feet, and will go to great lengths to hide them. They may avoid open-toed footwear, and activities - such as swimming, where their feet may be seen.
Surgery
Webbing can be corrected through surgery, although the end results depend on the extent of the webbing and underlying bone structure. There is usually some degree of scarring, and skin grafts may be required in some cases. In rare instances nerve damage may lead to loss of feeling in the toes. There are also reports of partial web grow-back.
If surgery is desired, surgeons usually advise postponement until a child is old enough to take part in the decision.
Famous webbed feet
- Amelia Welch – Australian, Sydney born artist & writer
- Rachel Stevens – UK Popstar, Sclub7
- Dan Aykroyd – US Actor, Ghostbusters, Driving Miss Daisy
- Danielle Panabaker – US Actress, Sky High, Herbie Fully Loaded
- Trish Helfer – US Actress, Battlestar Galactica
- Ashton Kutcher – US Actor, and host of Punk’d
- Josef Stalin (Unproven) – Communist Soviet leader