Curled Toe Paralysis is a major cause of lameness in young chicks within two weeks. It is caused primarily by insufficient incubation temperature, a lack of riboflavin (a vitamin), or leg injuries sustained during transportation or shortly after hatching.

Curled toes paralysis is a partial form of paralysis that specifically impacts young chickens, particularly broiler chicks under two weeks old. It primarily affects their toes, leading to a curled position.

The problem can be solved by giving vitamin supplements, adjusting the incubation temperature, ensuring proper handling, and providing movement support by using splints or tape on the toes. It should be noted, however, that in severe cases, the condition may become permanent.

The persistence of lameness in poultry is undeniable. It is here to stay, and the only effective approach to tackling it is through comprehensive management across different stages, beginning at the hatchery and encompassing transportation, feeding, and overall care.

This article will provide you with details on how I successfully resolved the issue of curled toes in my broiler chicks, as well as share other proven techniques employed by other farmers.

Before delving into the methods for addressing curled toes in broiler chicks, it is important to have a basic understanding of its causes, symptoms, how to resolve the issue, and preventative measures.

Causes of Curled Toes

According to existing research, what causes curled toes in chickens is a deficiency of riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, in their diet.

According to a 1971 report from the National Research Council, it was indicated that a lack of riboflavin in the diet of chickens leads to symptoms such as diarrhea, stunted growth, and a condition known as "curled toe paralysis." This condition causes the chicks to walk on their hocks with their toes curling inward, and it is considered the primary symptom of riboflavin deficiency.

However, different researchers have not consistently observed these findings. Based on recent experiments, it is suggested that curled toe paralysis is a less significant symptom of riboflavin deficiency in modern broiler chickens.

It only occurred in diets that were severely deficient, containing approximately one-third of the recommended level of riboflavin. When it did occur, the prevalence of the condition was below 10%. These findings imply that there are other potential causes of curled toe paralysis, in addition to riboflavin deficiency.

High incubation temperatures are one of the factors responsible for causing curled toe paralysis and paralysis in general.

Edgar Oviedo, a professor specializing in broiler nutrition and management, suggests that reducing the temperature towards the end of the incubation process can be beneficial in preventing lameness problems. Oviedo further explains that these issues, originating in the hatchery, impact approximately 0.5% to 1% of all flocks.

The presence of curled toes in a chick can also be attributed to improper positioning within the egg or inadequate humidity levels during the hatching process.

Important

It's important to note that if the curled toes appear after the chick is over a week old, the main factors to consider as potential causes are management and nutrition.

Additional factors that can contribute to the occurrence of curled legs in chicks include:

• Accidentally gripping the chick's leg, potentially during activities like vaccination and transportation.

• Keeping the chicks in battery cages, where the presence of a metal mesh floor has been linked to the development of deformed curled toes in chicks.

• Providing a smooth surface on the brooder floor, like newspaper or plastic, which can also result in splayed leg.

Treating Curled Toes Paralysis in Chickens - Practical Steps for Recovery

Begin by separating the affected chick and providing it with readily available food and water. Then, implement the following guidelines to address the issue effectively.

Rectifying curled toe paralysis in chickens involves a combination of physical therapy and the administration of vitamin supplements. While this process may require considerable effort, the eventual results make it a worthwhile endeavor.

In this situation, it is necessary to provide encouragement and assistance to the baby chick in order to ensure its normal functioning. It is important to supplement its feed or water with vital vitamins, specifically riboflavin (also known as vitamin B2), as this is the primary factor contributing to curled toe paralysis.

To rectify the issue of curled toes, one can utilize Vetwrap to gently secure and straighten a single toe.

If every toe experienced an impact, one could fashion a miniature "sandal" by utilizing tape and cardboard.

To create a sandal, start by placing the foot on a piece of cardboard and tracing around it. Cut out the shape. Next, carefully tape the chick's toes to the cardboard, ensuring that the toes are aligned properly. Allow the chick to wear the sandal for 24 to 48 hours before removing it to check for improvement.

If the chick's toes show signs of improvement within 2 to 3 days, it should be able to walk normally if the problem is addressed promptly.

In more severe cases, if the chicks are relying on their hocks for support, cushioning is required to prevent discomfort caused by friction with the floor. To create a cushion, place a soft material like foam on the hocks and secure it with tape.

Motivate the bird to move around and support its diet with vitamins and minerals that promote the development of sturdy bones.

Make sure the supplement includes essential elements like vitamins B2, E, K, D3, as well as manganese, calcium, and phosphorus. These nutrients are crucial for bone formation, and I specifically sought them out when I treated my broiler chick with a similar leg problem.

It is critical to provide consistent support for the chicks, especially when they lack access to food and water. Curled toe paralysis usually does not result in the death of chickens, but rather in their suffering as a result of insufficient nutrition and hydration. Although it may be difficult, your perseverance will eventually pay off.

How can I prevent curled toe paralysis in chickens?

• Ensure that breeder chickens are getting an adequate amount of riboflavin in their diet, ranging from 10-16mg/kg.

• Ensure that you provide fresh starter feed to your chicks to help them reach the desired weight.

• Avoid feeding them feed that has been stored for over two months.

• Store the feed in a sealed plastic container and keep it away from direct sunlight.

• Use soft and dry bedding for the chicks, and avoid keeping them in cages with metal mesh.

• Reduce the size of your flock to facilitate easier monitoring and observation. While leg issues may still arise, they are more difficult to manage in larger flocks.

In conclusion, addressing toe curl paralysis in chickens is crucial for maintaining their overall health and ensuring their ability to move freely. By implementing effective methods to correct this condition, chicken owners can improve the welfare and productivity of their flocks.

Dietary Adjustments: Providing a balanced and nutritious diet, particularly rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, is essential for preventing and correcting toe curl paralysis.

Environmental Modification: Ensuring a clean and spacious living environment with adequate bedding and proper ventilation can contribute to reducing the incidence of toe curl paralysis.

Nutritional Supplements: Administering supplements like vitamin E, vitamin B complex, and selenium can help address nutrient deficiencies that may lead to toe curl paralysis.

Exercise and Physical Therapy: Encouraging regular exercise and providing opportunities for chickens to stretch and strengthen their legs and feet can aid in correcting toe curl paralysis.

Splinting or Taping: Immobilizing the affected toes with splints or tape can help align them correctly, allowing the muscles and tendons to regain their normal function gradually.

Massage and Heat Therapy: Gently massaging the affected toes and applying heat therapy can promote blood circulation and relax the muscles, aiding in the recovery process.

Electrolyte Solutions: Administering electrolyte solutions in the drinking water can help maintain the electrolyte balance in chickens and support nerve and muscle function.

Veterinary Intervention: In severe cases or if the condition persists despite the aforementioned methods, seeking professional veterinary assistance is crucial.

A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination, diagnose underlying causes, and provide appropriate medical treatments or surgical interventions.

By combining these methods and tailoring them to the specific needs of the affected chickens, farmers and chicken owners can effectively correct toe curl paralysis and prevent its recurrence.

Early detection and prompt action are key to achieving successful outcomes. Ultimately, ensuring the well-being and mobility of chickens contributes to their overall quality of life and productivity within the farming industry.

Sources

R.D. Wyatt, H.T. Tung, W.E. Donaldson, P.B. Hamilton, A New Description of Riboflavin Deficiency Syndrome in Chickens1,2, Poultry Science, Volume 52, Issue 1, 1973, Pages 237-244, ISSN 0032-5791,

R.M. BETHKE, P.R. RECORD, D.C. KENNARD, A Type of Nutritional Leg Paralysis Affecting Chicks, Poultry Science, Volume 10, Issue 7, 1931, Pages 355-368, ISSN 0032-5791,