NAIL PROBLEMS

What are podiatric nail problems?

The most common forms of nail issues that we treat are:

  1. Involuted Nails

  2. Ingrown Nails

  3. Thickened Nails

  4. Fungal Nails

1: Involuted Nails

Typical nails have a flat or only slightly curved shape. Involuted nails are nails that have an abnormally curved shape, where the nail edges curl inward and press into the skin on the sides of the toe. This can cause pain and discomfort as the nail digs into the flesh and causes pressure on the nail bed. It can cause a build-up of hard skin (callus) and can trap dead skin cells as they are shed, compounding the build-up of debris in the sulci space (edge of nail). The pressure from the nail can be painful and uncomfortable, especially when wearing shoes or walking.  An involuted nail can potentially lead to an ingrown toenail.  If an involuted nail is causing significant pain or complications, a podiatrist can resect the nail edges to relive pressure and pain. Some people may need a nail surgery procedure called a partial or total nail avulsion.

2: Ingrown Nails

An ingrown or ingrowing toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail actually pierces or grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. The big toe is most commonly affected. Sometimes the podiatrist can try a resection if the issue is minor but usually a nail surgery procedure is required.

3: Thickened Nails

Nail thickening, also known as onychauxis, refers to an abnormal growth of the nail plate, causing it to become unusually thick. Causes can include fungal infections, previous trauma or injury to the nail bed, age and slower nail plate growth rates, certain medical conditions like psoriasis, poor circulation, tight or poorly fitting shoes, and chronic trauma from extended periods of pressure (athletes). Your podiatrist can reduce the nail thickness for you during an appointment,

2: Fungal Nails

Nails that have thickened in appearance due to the presence of fungal infection. These nails can simply be reduced in thickness for your comfort or can be treated - read more about fungal nail fenestration here.

What are the treatment options?

Your first step is to book a new patient appointment. Appointments are bespoke to your foot health needs so during this appointment slot we will start the treatment process; we may resect a problematic nail, trim and file toenails, reduce thick nails, and carry out other work on corns and callus depending on your specific foot health needs and what can be achieved in the timeslot.

You will be advised on the self care that will improve the condition of your skin and nails. You may need to return for more than one appointment, this will depend on how severe the issues are and how much self care you can undertake to maintain your foot health.