adoptspecialneeds.org

FACTS:

• Syndactyly is a condition where a child has finger or toes that are joined together or not formed completely.  
• Fingers and toes can be short or curved or formed together.
• Syndactyly can be genetic, passed down by the parents. It can also happen while the baby grows inside the mother.  
• Children with syndactyly can usually do anything that a child with normal appearing fingers and toes. They may need help learning how to do daily activities like dressing. 
• Children with syndactyly can live a long and healthy life.

TREATMENT:

• Check with a doctor to see if treatment is needed.    
• Surgery may or may not be needed to correct the involved fingers or toes.
• Physical therapy can help the child learn to do daily tasks with ease. Children should be encouraged to engage in normal play and other activities.  This will give them a chance to develop and improve their motor skills.  With practice, children with sydactyly can do everything!
• Children may prefer to wear clothes without buttons.  Shirts with zippers or pants with elastic waists make getting dressed easier.    
• Cups and bowls with handles help at mealtime.