Pediatric Toe Deformities: Curly Toes Explained

Tethered cord syndrome can be difficult to recognize in children, with symptoms ranging from leg pain and coordination difficulties to bowel and bladder dysfunction. In this episode of the Paley Podcast, Dr. Kaveh Asadi, pediatric neurosurgeon at the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, explains how tethered cord syndrome develops, why diagnosis requires more than an MRI, and how surgeons determine when treatment may be necessary. Dr. Asadi also compares traditional intradural tethered cord release with the minimally invasive extradural approach, highlighting differences in surgical technique, potential complications, recovery, and patient selection. He discusses how the extradural technique can avoid opening the dura, potentially reducing certain surgical risks and allowing for a faster recovery in appropriately selected patients. For families navigating a tethered cord diagnosis, this episode provides valuable insight into treatment options and the importance of individualized care. To learn more or inquire about tethered cord treatment, contact: [email protected]  

Dr. Claire Shannon explains congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia, or CPT - a rare pediatric condition where the tibia fractures and fails to heal properly. She discusses why CPT has historically been so difficult to treat and how the cross-union procedure pioneered at the Paley Institute has transformed outcomes for children with this diagnosis.  

In this episode, Dr. Arun Hariharan breaks down vertebral body tethering (VBT), an innovative surgical option for scoliosis that preserves flexibility and allows for continued growth. Learn how it compares to traditional spinal fusion and which patients may benefit most.

What is kyphosis and when does it become a problem? In this episode, Dr. Arun Hariharan explains how excessive forward curvature of the spine develops, how it differs between postural and structural conditions like Scheuermann's kyphosis, and when treatment is necessary.

Chronic pain often needs more than one solution. In part three, our specialists discuss why collaboration between physicians, surgeons, physical therapists, psychologists, and patients themselves can lead to better long-term outcomes. 

In part two, we explore the future of pain care including spinal cord stimulation, PRP, and regenerative medicine. Learn how modern therapies are helping reduce chronic pain, improve function, and move beyond temporary relief. 

Could your chronic low back pain be coming from inside the vertebrae? In part one of this series, our interventional pain management specialists explain basivertebral nerve ablation (BVN), an innovative minimally invasive treatment designed for patients with vertebrogenic back pain linked to Modic changes on MRI. 

Dr. Levy dives into the high-tech world of shoulder replacement, exploring how computer-assisted surgery is removing the guesswork from the operating room. From virtual reality (VR) to robotic arms, this episode covers how surgeons are using digital tools to plan for 100% of their cases before they even pick up a scalpel. Learn more or schedule a consultation: paleyinstitute.org 

In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Levy discusses the transition from "mechanical" fixes to "biological" solutions in treating complex rotator cuff tears. He shares how the field has moved from open surgeries to minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, and why the focus is shifting from simply adding more anchors to improving the patient's actual capacity to heal. Learn more or schedule a consultation: paleyinstitute.org 

Many pediatric toe conditions are more common - and more treatable - than most parents realize. In this episode of the Paley Podcast, Dr. Mitzi Williams explores congenital toe deformities, with a focus on one of the most frequently seen conditions: curly toes. She explains how these conditions develop, when they may improve naturally, and how to determine when intervention is the right approach. Dr. Williams also discusses how growth plays a critical role in treatment decisions, why early evaluation can prevent more complex issues later on, and how minimally invasive procedures can offer simple, effective solutions with predictable outcomes. This episode is a valuable guide for parents seeking clarity on pediatric foot development and understanding when to monitor versus when to act. Learn more or schedule a consultation: paleyinstitute.org