Chick with deformed toes? Pics.

[Fluffy_Butt]

Hi all and thanks for reading!

I recently noticed that one of my chicks has a toe that curls under on both feet. Valentine is a 5 weekish (hatched valentine's day) chick that I suspect is a silkie/Braham cross (although could be cochin). (S)he has 5 toes on each foot, and the back (?) one is completely curled under to the point where it seems like she's walking on her knuckle. She doesn't appear uncorfortable and moves as well as her hatch-mates. I only discovered this anomoly when I was re-counting chick toes after noticing that one of my chicks had 4 toes on one foot and 5 on the other (my first mutt-hatch and I was curious). They eat https://grubblyfarms.com/products/grubbly-starter-grower-feed.
Do you guys think this will cause her problems as she grows up, or is this something that I can (or should try to) fix?

 

[Wyorp Rock]

It may cause problems like Bumblefoot or callouses.
Can they be straightened at all? If so, then you may want to try taping the toes/feet flat to see if you can correct them. At that age, they may already be set.

 

[LadiesAndJane]

It may not be too late. Many threads here on BYC explaining how to do it. You can use cardboard and tape and make corrective "shoes" for her. You will need help as the foot has to be aligned in the anatomically correct position. You will have to change them weekly as she is still growing (also why it may still work). The sooner the better. It is worth a try in my opinion.
You can also trim the nails on the back two toes, they look a bit long.
I trim my silkies nails about once every 6-8 weeks or so.
Good luck!

 

[Fluffy_Butt]

Thank you! I’ll look up the shoes and make some tomorrow. Here’s a cute pic of Valentine in thanks

 

[Fluffy_Butt]

I ended up making more of a splint that I left on for a few days. This morning the toes look better, but what do you guy think? Do they need more time splinted or do they look okay?

 

[Fluffy_Butt]

Last picture didn’t load for some reason.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

I think they look better!
@LadiesAndJane what do you think?

 

[microchick]

No expert on Silkies but I know a good job on orthotics when I see them. Great job! Personally I might do a little more time on them just to make sure that they stay where they are supposed to.

BTW. Valentine is a cutie. I love those 5 toes!

 

[LadiesAndJane]

I ended up making more of a splint that I left on for a few days. This morning the toes look better, but what do you guy think? Do they need more time splinted or do they look okay?

I think they look better!
@LadiesAndJane what do you think?

They look great! Good job on the orthotics! If it does not bother her too much, I agree and would leave on a bit longer, as they can revert back if not on long enough. Try another 5 days or so.

 

[Fluffy_Butt]

Thanks the the advice and feedback! I'll let her toes rest for the day (mainly because I won't have another pair of hands to help hold him/her until then, lol) and then resplint them.. Valentine was a great sport and, aside from their application and removal, didn't seem to mind the splints at all. I'll update with new pics after. I can hardly wait to see what she slooks like when she grows up!