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February 20, 2025
Toenails are more than just a cosmetic feature; they’re protective shields that provide insight into overall toenail health, general health and well-being. Their shape, texture, and condition can indicate underlying issues, simple genetic traits, or the effects of lifestyle habits. In this article, we will explore the various types of toenails based on shape, thickness, texture, as well as medical and foot conditions.
How do Toenails Grow?
Nails grow from a specialized area of skin called the nail matrix, located beneath the cuticle at the base of the nail. This matrix contains rapidly dividing cells that produce keratin, a tough protein that forms the structure of the nail. As new cells are generated, older cells are pushed forward, gradually hardening through a process called keratinization.
The visible part of the nail, known as the nail plate, rests on the nail bed, which supplies it with nutrients and oxygen through a network of capillaries. The lunula, the pale crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail, is the visible portion of the matrix, where active growth occurs. Healthy nail growth depends on factors like blood circulation, nutrition, and overall health, with fingernails typically growing faster than toenails.
You can learn more about toenail anatomy here.
Toenail Shapes
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Z6VYvI6CJQs
Toenails can naturally grow in different shapes due to genetic factors, footwear, medical conditions, and nail care routines. Below are some common toenails types (and some not-so-common types as well).
1. Normal (Flat or Slightly Curved) Toenails
Healthy toenails are typically flat or slightly curved, with a smooth surface and a light pinkish hue. They are neither too thick nor too brittle and grow evenly without splitting or cracking. If your toenails are entirely white with no pinkish hue, it may indicate anemia.
2. Curled Toenails
Some people naturally have curled toenails, where the edges curve gently. This shape is common and generally poses no issues unless the curvature is extreme, leading to a higher risk of ingrown toenails. Toenails that are excessively curled are called involuted toenails. It’s important to note you should never purposely try to round the sides of your toenails with toenail clippers — always cut straight across.
3. Square Toenails
Square toenails are straight across with sharp (but not too sharp!) or slightly rounded corners. This shape is often preferred for reducing the risk of ingrown nails, as it prevents the nail from growing into the surrounding skin. When you trim your nails, or get them trimmed by a specialist like a podiatrist or chiropodist during a medical pedicure, the end result should resemble a square shape on all nails.
4. Spoon-Shaped (Koilonychia) Toenails
Koilonychia is a term for spoon-shaped toenails that curve inward, creating a concave appearance. They can be a tell-tale way to discern the difference between healthy toenails vs. unhealthy toenails. This condition may be a sign of iron deficiency, anemia, autoimmune disease, lupus and poor blood flow to the hands and feet. Regular health check-ups and iron-rich diets can help prevent or manage this issue.
5. Clubbed Toenails
Clubbed toenails are thickened and rounded, often appearing swollen and accompanied by broadening of the tip of the toes. This can be a sign of chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. If toenails appear clubbed, a medical evaluation is recommended.
Toenail Thickness & Texture
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/3JAUqiqJfus
The thickness and texture of toenails can reveal a lot about their health.
1. Thickened Toenails
Thickened toenails are often due to fungal infections. Thick nails infected with fungus require professional care from a chiropodist or podiatrist for proper maintenance and treatment because the infection is trapped and buried beneath the thickening — you won’t be able to treat it at home successfully. More on fungal infections later!
2. Brittle Toenails
Brittle toenails tend to split or crack easily and may be caused by dehydration, prolonged exposure to moisture, or certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism. Moisturizing and maintaining proper hydration can help prevent brittleness.
3. Toenails with Ridges
Vertical ridges on the toenails are common with aging and are usually harmless. Horizontal ridges (Beau’s lines) that look like indented grooves may indicate trauma, illnesses like viral infections or heart disease, severe stress and more. If Beau’s lines appear one day, you should talk to your family doctor. Subtle bands or stripes running along the nail can also be a signal you need to eat more protein.
4. Pitted Toenails
Pitted toenails have small indentations or depressions in the nail surface. This condition is often associated with psoriasis, eczema, or alopecia areata. Treating the underlying condition can help improve nail health.
The Most Common Toenail Conditions
Beyond shape and texture, toenails can be affected by various conditions that may cause discomfort or indicate a medical issue.
1. Ingrown Toenails
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ZsFQqCkVf40
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge or corner of a toenail (usually the big toe) grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Ill-fitting shoes are a common cause; when shoes are too tight, they squeeze the toes together, increasing pressure on the sides of the toenail toenail, which disrupts the natural toenail growth pattern and forces it into the skin. High heels or narrow-toed shoes are particularly problematic because they alter the natural position of the foot and toe alignment, leading to more friction and pressure on the nail. This can result in the nail digging into the surrounding tissue, exacerbating the risk of infection and discomfort.
Additionally, improper trimming of toenails (e.g., cutting them too short or in a rounded shape) can also contribute to ingrown toenails, especially when combined with tight footwear.
Sometimes, there may be a genetic component to ingrown toenails. Certain nail shapes and growth patterns are hereditary (i.e.: involuted toenails) and can make a person more prone to developing ingrown toenails.
Chronic ingrown toenails may lead to infection, so it’s a good idea to visit a foot clinic at the first sign of discomfort. A chiropodist can safely treat the ingrown toenail - often without surgery. OnyFix is also a great, modern option that’s completely non-invasive and stimulates a normal nail growth pattern. Both of these services are performed by foot care professionals.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/LoCcoKOhV7E
2. Fungal Toenails (Onychomycosis)
Fungal infections can cause toenails to become thick, yellowish, and crumbly. This condition is common in people who frequently visit places where fungal infections breed, like moist, shared locker rooms and showers, public pools, nail salons and more. You can also get fungal toenail if you’re prone to athlete’s foot (which can then spread to the toenails). Older people, as well as people who wear shoes that trap foot sweat (and exacerbate it) are also more at risk. Keeping your nails clean and away from contagious areas is a key prevention tip.
Antifungal treatments and maintaining good foot hygiene can help control fungal infections, but it’s important to see a foot specialist to properly treat it. It is difficult to treat fungal infections on your own (unless it's in the very early stages) because the infection occurs beneath the nail, making it hard for topical treatments to penetrate deeply enough to eliminate the fungi. The nail acts as a natural barrier, trapping the infection in the nail bed and protecting the fungus from over-the-counter creams or home remedies. Sometimes our nails being so protective can be a double-edged sword!
A chiropodist or podiatrist can perform nail debridement (removing infected parts of the nail to allow proper treatment) before applying a prescription-strength topical antifungal medication.
3. Discoloured Toenails
Toenails can change colour due to various reasons. Here are some common discolourations that stray from the natural pink hue, and why it happens:
Yellow or brown nails: Often a sign of fungal infection and accompanied by nail thickening. This can also be caused by wearing nail polish; the chemicals are absorbed by the structure of the nail, causing yellow staining.
White spots: Can indicate several issues. They can happen due to minor trauma, kidney issues, yeast infections, cirrhosis, or they may signal something more innocent, like nutritional deficiency— often zinc. If your toenails are entirely white with no pinkish hue, it could possibly be anemia.
Black, red or purple: Generally caused by trauma (subungual hematoma). The dark colour is essentially bruising underneath the nail. People often notice a black toenail after stubbing it or dropping a hard object on it. Trauma can also cause toenail damage, like cracked toenails.
4. Detached Toenails (Onycholysis)
Sometimes your toenail can start to fall off, which can be alarming. Onycholysis occurs when the nail separates from the nail bed, often due to trauma, fungal infections, or psoriasis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
5. Ram’s Horn Toenails (Onychogryphosis)
This condition results in extremely thick and curved toenails that resemble a horn. It is more common in elderly individuals or those with poor circulation. Regular trimming and professional care from a chiropodist or podiatrist are essential for management.
January 30, 2025
Toenail conditions can cover a wide range of problems, each with its own set of symptoms. Typical causes and risk factors include wearing ill-fitting shoes over long periods, contracting contagious fungi, infections, cutting your toenails incorrectly, having poor circulation and more. Today we’ll talk about the 5 most common toenail conditions and what you can do to address each one. Nailed it!
5 Common Toenail Conditions
Ingrown toenails
Toenail fungus
Cracked/stubbed toenails
Discoloured toenails
Onycholysis
Risk Factors for Common Toenail Problems
Improper nail trimming, such as cutting nails too short or rounding edges.
Wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear that puts pressure on the toes.
Frequent exposure to damp or moist environments - this leads to fungal infections, which can spread and worsen without treatment.
Walking barefoot in communal areas, which increases exposure to fungi and bacteria.
Trauma to the toes, such as stubbing or dropping heavy objects.
Poor foot hygiene, leading to debris buildup and a more favourable environment for bacteria and fungi.
Genetics, including naturally curved nails or a family history of nail issues.
Poor circulation, which disrupts the natural toenail growth process and can lead to an array of toenail deformities and misshapen toenails.
Medical conditions like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, which impair circulation and healing. It's extremely important to attend regular appointments with a chiropodist or podiatrist if you have diabetes as even deceptively minor issues, like cracked toenails or ingrown toenails, can turn into diabetic ulcers when ignored.
Psoriasis or other skin conditions affecting the nails.
Weak or brittle nails caused by aging, poor nutrition, or overuse of harsh chemicals (too many cosmetic pedicures).
Repetitive pressure on nails from activities like running or wearing high heels.
1. Ingrown Toenails
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/LoCcoKOhV7E
Ingrown toenails are one of the most common toenail problems, with some studies suggesting they affect 20% of patients who seek medical care for foot-related issues. They occur when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the soft skin surrounding it. This leads to inflammation, swelling, and pain. The big toes are particularly prone to this condition due to their size and the pressure they endure during daily activities.
Nails grow from the nail matrix, a layer of tissue beneath the cuticle that produces keratin, the protein that forms the nail. Healthy nails grow straight outward, following the curve of the toe. However, if the nail is cut incorrectly, exposed to excessive pressure and toe crowding in shoes, or grows irregularly due to genetics, its edges can deviate and pierce the surrounding skin.
Once the nail edge enters the skin, the body identifies it as a foreign object. This triggers an inflammatory response, where blood flow to the area increases, causing redness, swelling, and pain. If bacteria enter the wound, infection may develop, leading to pus and further discomfort.
Treatment for ingrown toenails depends on the severity of the condition and the individual’s needs. For mild cases, conservative care such as warm water soaks, antibiotic ointments, and proper nail trimming can help alleviate discomfort and prevent infection. Professional treatments offer more targeted solutions.
OnyFix is a non-invasive option that uses a specialized band applied to the nail, gently guiding its growth to prevent future ingrown edges without the need for surgery. Medical pedicures, performed by a chiropodist or podiatrist, safely address ingrown nails by trimming and reshaping them with sterilized tools while maintaining overall nail health. For severe or recurrent cases, surgical interventions such as partial or total nail avulsion may be necessary to remove the problematic portion of the nail and ensure long-term relief. Consulting a foot care specialist is key to determining the most effective treatment plan.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ZsFQqCkVf40
2. Toenail Fungus
Fungal toenails occur when fungi infect the nail bed, causing changes in the nail's colour, texture, and thickness. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, which makes the toes a prime target, especially in people who wear tight shoes, sweat excessively, or walk barefoot in public areas. Over time, the nail may become discoloured (yellow, brown, or white), thickened, and brittle, and it may even begin to separate from the nail bed.
Fungal infections can be persistent and difficult to treat due to the fact they’re essentially stuck under the nail. This means professional intervention from a chiropodist or podiatrist is necessary. They can apply topical antifungals after performing nail debridement (removing a part of the infection) so they have access to the nail.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/jo9Ro-iGU2s
3. Cracked / Stubbed Toenails
Cracked and stubbed toenails often coexist. They occur when the nail becomes brittle and breaks, often due to factors like dehydration, excessive moisture, or external pressure from tight shoes. The nail’s keratin structure weakens, leading to splits or fractures. Stubbed toenails, on the other hand, happen when the toe is forcefully struck, causing immediate pain and potential damage to the nail, which includes cracking.
You can usually let your cracked toenails grow out naturally. If the nail is cracked due to sudden trauma and there is no other culprit at play, this will take about 6 to 8 weeks to start, and sometimes over a year to completely regrow properly. A chiropodist or podiatrist might be able to provide a remedy to encourage faster growth, and suggest the best footwear for your feet to avoid toe crowding and further nail damage.
In the case of complications or a more sinister underlying problem, a foot specialist may partially or fully remove the nail (avulsion) or apply dressing to the area to prevent infection.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lArn5KLnnSA
4. Discoloured Toenails
Discoloured toenails are more of a symptom than a problem. When the nail changes colour, it often reflects a problem with the nail, tissue beneath it, or your general health. Fungal infections, for example, commonly cause yellow or brown discoloration, as the fungi damage the nail and its growth. Trauma can also lead to discolouration, often presenting as a dark bruise (purple or black) due to blood pooling under the nail.
Nail Discolouration Causes and Colours:
Yellow: Fungal infections, thickening, aging.
Black: Trauma or bruising beneath the nail, potentially accompanied by blood pooling.
White spots: Trauma, fungus, allergies — generally harmless.
Bluish/Pale: Circulation issues, anemia, or other health conditions.
Treatment is difficult to discern as many factors may be causing discolouration. The best course of action is scheduling a foot assessment or nail care appointment with a chiropodist or podiatrist at a foot clinic.
5. Onycholysis
This is a term for when your nail starts to separate from the nail bed. It often coexists with toenail fungus, psoriasis or trauma/toe injuries. Depending on the cause, you may need a full course of fungal toenail treatment at a foot clinic, or you may need to ask a specialist what’s causing the problem before they curate a treatment plan. As mentioned before, the detached portion of your nail will usually grow back on its own if it's separated because of trauma.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/QFWBwM6mGqM
Prevention Tips for Common Toenail Problems
Trim nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
Wear properly fitting footwear that allows adequate toe room.
Maintain good foot hygiene, including regular washing and drying of feet.
Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Keep feet dry, especially in winter, and use moisture-wicking socks to prevent fungal growth.
Protect toes from trauma by wearing protective footwear in hazardous environments.
Moisturize nails and cuticles regularly to prevent brittleness and cracking.
Avoid harsh chemicals, including acetone-based nail polish removers.
Monitor nails for discoloration, thickening, or unusual texture changes.
Seek professional care from a chiropodist or podiatrist if you suspect you have a fungal infection. You can’t treat these at home.
Seek professional care from a chiropodist or podiatrist if you notice persistent pain, redness, or swelling.
Schedule foot assessments and regular medical pedicures with a chiropodist or podiatrist so they can keep an eye on your feet — four eyes are better than two!
January 9, 2025
When it comes to health, foot care sometimes takes a backseat for men. However, neglecting this vital part of the body can lead to foot pain, skin and nail problems, reduced mobility, and more serious issues over time. Some foot conditions commonly seen in men are influenced by lifestyle, footwear choices, or other risk factors. That's why prioritizing men's foot health is essential for maintaining an active, pain-free life. In this article, we’ll explore three foot conditions that can disproportionately affect men, and discuss the best ways to treat them.
Foot Conditions That Target Men
Gout
Achilles tendinitis
Toenail conditions
Additional foot conditions in men
Gout
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lQDihccUBg
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints. Uric acid is a byproduct formed during the breakdown of purines, which are naturally found in the body and certain foods (e.g., red meat, seafood, and alcohol). Normally, uric acid is dissolved in the blood and excreted through urine. However, when the body produces too much uric acid or fails to excrete it efficiently, it can lead to hyperuricemia (high levels of uric acid in the blood).
When uric acid levels exceed the threshold of solubility, needle-shaped urate crystals can form and deposit in the joints. This triggers the immune system and causes the painful inflammatory response characteristic of gout.
Gout symptoms generally come in the form of severe and sudden flare ups ("gout attacks") that come and go, rather than a consistent, nagging pain like other conditions. It often feels like your big toe is hot or “on fire”. The pain can even signal your body to wake up from a deep sleep. Gout attacks cause swelling, redness, intense joint pain and affected mobility. While usually affecting the feet (typically starting in the big toe), it might also spread to other joints like the fingers, elbows, wrists, knees and ankles.
Gout affects men more than women primarily because men naturally have higher levels of uric acid, which is the root cause of the condition. Estrogen, a hormone predominant in women before menopause, helps the kidneys excrete uric acid more efficiently. This offers women a protective advantage until estrogen levels decline after menopause. As a result, men can develop it at any stage of their lives, while women typically experience it post-menopause.
How to Treat Gout?
Gout is a metabolic disorder, and is managed through a combination of treatments and lifestyle modifications:
Medication: Medications that reduce uric acid levels are often required to manage gout. These can be prescribed by your family doctor or rheumatologist. Medications like NSAIDs and corticosteroids can also help reduce symptoms by reducing inflammation.
Exercise and Physical Activity: Recurrent gout attacks weaken and damage the joints over time. The best way to counteract this is to strengthen and condition the joints with a consistent fitness regimen. Not only will this help curtail progressive joint damage, stronger joints and muscles allows the body to better withstand our regular activities. This reduces joint strain, which interrupts the inflammatory response that triggers gout attacks in the first place.
Diet: It is a myth that diet alone will cause gout. However, a healthy balanced diet with foods that are low in purines can help curb gout attacks. Some of the best foods to eat include poultry and eggs, nuts and legumes and leafy greens. It's important to avoid foods that contain high fructose corn syrup (i.e.: cola), red meat and other rich foods high in purines.
Orthotics & Footwear: A chiropodist or podiatrist can help manage the joint damage caused by gout by recommending supportive footwear and prescribing custom orthotics. These treatments will address any biomechanical factors causing excess strain and pressure on the affected joints; this will in turn reduce the joint inflammation that can trigger gout attacks.
Achilles Tendinitis
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/utLavyPDnqI
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon facilitates walking, running, and jumping by transmitting force from the calf muscles to the foot. Achilles tendinitis develops when the tendon experiences repetitive stress, microtears, and inadequate recovery, leading to localized inflammation, pain, and stiffness. The condition often arises from activities that involve sudden increases in intensity, duration, or frequency, such as running or jumping sports. It can also be caused or contributed to by weak, tight calf muscles.
Research suggests that Achilles tendinitis may be more common in men, particularly those over 30 years old. This is because male recreational runners and athletes tend to burden the tendon with a greater load than their female counterparts. Men sometimes also have less flexibility in their calf muscles than women, which increases the strain on the Achilles during physical activity. Hormonal differences also play a role, as estrogen in women may provide some protective effects by enhancing tendon elasticity and reducing stiffness.
How to Treat Achilles Tendonitis?
Treatment for Achilles tendinitis includes strengthening the tendon and surrounding muscles by performing foot exercises and stretches, particularly ones that work the calf muscles.
Shockwave therapy from a podiatrist or chiropodist at a foot clinic might also be an option for you. This is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates healing in soft tissues via high frequency sound waves from a special applicator.
Speaking of foot clinics, another great way to manage Achilles tendinitis and prevent it from occurring again is getting fitted for custom orthotics by a foot care professional. You can also try high quality over-the-counter insoles from brands like Superfeet. Athletes and runners should also always wear supportive footwear that provides adequate shock absorption and arch support.
Toenail Conditions
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Z6VYvI6CJQs
Some men may be less likely to care for their toenails than women are. This leaves them more vulnerable to issues like ingrown toenails, cracked toenails or even toenail fungus. Men may also be less likely to receive treatments like medical pedicures, a comprehensive service performed by a chiropodist or podiatrist that not only cleans and trims the nails, but can be a great way to spot potential toenail issues.
Neglecting regular trimming, cleaning, and moisturizing of the nails creates an environment where these problems can thrive, particularly when combined with factors like wearing tight or non-breathable footwear, engaging in strenuous physical activities, or ignoring early signs of discomfort. Therefore, regular nail care, including proper trimming techniques and maintaining foot hygiene, is essential for preventing these common nail issues.
As far as toenail fungus goes, some men are more likely to spend time in areas where these contagious fungi thrive, like public showers, locker rooms and pools. It’s critical to wear protective footwear in these spaces, or avoid them entirely as much as you can. If you notice toenail fungus starting to grow under the nail (by way of thickened, brittle greenish-yellow toenails), you should seek treatment from a chiropodist or podiatrist right away, as most over-the-counter anti-fungal products from drug stores won’t work.
Additional Foot Conditions That Affect Men
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VqEeU4Hrh3I
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot and absorbs shock during movement. Overuse, prolonged standing, having flat feet or high-impact activities can lead to inflammation, triggering pain and stiffness, particularly near the heel. Men may be more susceptible to plantar fasciitis due to higher body weight, which increases strain on the plantar fascia. Greater participation in high-impact sports and physically demanding jobs that involve repetitive stress on the feet can also put men more at risk for plantar fasciitis. That said, plantar fascitiis is simply a very common condition that can target anyone. Treatment typically involves rest, stretching exercises for the calf and foot, and wearing supportive footwear and orthotics. Severe cases may benefit from physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications.
Foot Odour
Foot odour, or bromodosis, occurs when sweat from the feet interacts with bacteria on the skin, producing a noticeable smell. The feet contain more sweat glands per square centimetre than any other part of the body, making them particularly prone to excessive sweating. Men may experience foot odour more frequently than women due to higher sweat production, more time spent in closed footwear, and less attention to foot hygiene. Prevention and treatment involve washing the feet daily, thoroughly drying them, and wearing moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes. Deodorizing powders and sprays, as well as foot soaks can also help minimize bacterial growth and odour. We suggest trying these products from Gehwol, a reputable brand available to purchase at our Toronto foot clinic!
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/TW9L0UMjLOw
September 2, 2024
Ingrown toenails can be more than just a foot problem. Quite frankly, they're annoying. They can also lead to significant discomfort and even serious complications if not addressed properly. Many people don’t even fully understand what they are or what “ingrown” really looks like, so recognizing ingrown toenails early is crucial! This will allow for prompt, effective and safe ingrown toenail treatment, which will reduce your risk of infection and help you avoid more invasive procedures.
Recognizing Ingrown Toenails
So, how can you tell if you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail? The first symptoms include pain and tenderness along the side edge of your toenail (the exact location is the called the paronychium, or the soft tissue border around the nail), typically on the big toe. Why the big toe? It is larger and more vulnerable! It withstands the most damaging effects from poor foot care habits (more on that later).
You might also notice swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. If the condition progresses, pus may develop, indicating an ingrown toenail infection. Catching these signs early is key to avoiding further issues.
Visually, it may look curved or embedded, or simply like a tiny, strange nail growth attached to the main nail. You may also see skin growing over the nail.
Ingrown Toenails Causes
Ingrown toenails result from seemingly innocent routines that over time, damage your foot health.
These include improper nail trimming — cutting nails too short or rounding the edges (many people do this for aesthetics but it's a big no-no!) which encourages the nail to grow into the skin. Tight shoes that squeeze the toes together (your feet may be wider than you think), as well as injuries to the toenail, are also common culprits. In some cases, genetics may play a role: some people's natural nail shape and growth pattern may make them more predisposed to developing ingrown toenails, like involuted or pincer toenails.
Knowing these causes gives you the upper hand in preventing ingrown toenails before they start.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Wherever possible, prevention is always better than cure.
By trimming your nails straight across, wearing shoes that fit properly, and keeping your feet clean, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing ingrown toenails and a corresponding infection.
If you’re unsure how to cut your toenails properly, especially if you have conditions like diabetic neuropathy, seeking help from a chiropodist for a medical pedicure can be a smart choice. People with diabetes need to be extra vigilant about foot care, as their condition can make them more susceptible to complications from ingrown toenails. Click here to see how a deceptively minor laceration can turn into an ulcer.
Regularly checking your feet, especially if you’re prone to ingrown toenails, is also an essential part of care.
Treating Ingrown Toenails
For mild cases in the early stages, soaking your foot in warm water for 15 minutes 2 times a day can soften the skin and reduce swelling. After, you can wedge a wet piece of cotton under the corner of the toenail to help lift the ingrown portion while it heals. But beware—safe ingrown toenail treatment at home requires careful handling to avoid making things worse. And whatever you do, do not attempt to cut the toenail or dig the ingrown portion out.
If there's no improvement in 3 days, or if you're experiencing any pain or irritation, seeking professional ingrown toenails treatment from a Toronto chiropodist is a better idea. For safe ingrown toenail treatment, always see a chiropodist - do not go to a salon. If you try to treat your ingrown toenail at home (or at a salon), you can get an infection and make things worse. Plus, when you do ultimately see the chiropodist, the chiropodist will have to cut the toenail even shorter than they normally would in order to fix the DIY job. This lengthens the healing process.
If the pain is severe and you’re waiting for your chiropody appointment, try the following tips for ingrown toenail relief:
Soaking your feet in warm (not hot) water with Epson salts: The salt is a natural disinfectant and will help clean the wound so that it doesn't get infected and become further irritated.
If there are signs of infection (i.e.: bleeding, discharge), wear a band-aid over the ingrown toenail when you're wearing shoes and socks to prevent bacteria from getting stuck in the wound.
Try over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Ibuprofen
These can offer temporary comfort before you can address the root cause and follow proper treatment guidelines.
Safe Ingrown Toenail Removal
Safe ingrown toenail removal with a licensed chiropodist is always the best way to go. Most ingrown toenails do not need to be surgically removed: a chiropodist can typically safely remove it non-surgically with sterilized tools in a sanitized, safe environment. They can also cut the toenail in a way to prevent it from coming back.
In severe cases (like if you attempted to fix your own ingrown toenail and it got infected, or your ingrown toenail keeps coming back), safe ingrown toenail treatment may involve a minor surgical procedure from a chiropodist called a total or partial nail avulsion.
August 22, 2024
When it comes to foot problem prevention, being proactive is key to maintaining healthy feet and avoiding a future of discomfort. Understanding common foot issues and taking steps to prevent them can help reduce the risk of complications down the road.
In this article, we’ll explore five of the most common foot conditions and provide essential foot care tips to help you keep your feet in top shape.
Plantar Fasciitis
One in ten people will experience plantar fasciitis in their lifetime, making it one of the most common foot issues.
Plantar fasciitis at the start, can cause minor discomfort in the arch of the foot or even in the heel. It usually starts when you just get out of bed. It calms down through the day and then the soreness starts at the end of the day.
That discomfort, if not properly treated and investigated, can increase and then start to cause stronger and sharper pain. Sometimes this pain can last through the day to a point where you might find it difficult to walk. The main cause is inflammation- constant pulling and tugging on the thick, inelastic fascia itself (midfoot pain). Or, where it inserts from (the heel pain).
Pressure can be from the arch pressing down on the fascia:
It can also be a tight muscle, like the calf muscle pulling up behind the heel and forcing the fascia to pull away from the heel
It can also be a combination of a tight muscle and pulling of the fascia. In rare occasions plantar fasciitis is caused by a nerve entrapment.
Prevention
Preventing plantar fasciitis is mainly down to figuring out what was the cause in the first place. It might be a biomechanical issue with the feet. It could be due to the shoes that you might be wearing- at home, at work or just around town. In some cases it is due to a muscle imbalance. So figuring out the cause is the first step in treating and then preventing further plantar fascia pain in the future.
One of the cornerstone treatments in preventing plantar fasciitis involves prioritizing arch support! It is a good idea to wear supportive shoes with good arch support and shock absorption, especially if you spend long periods standing or walking. Custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts can also provide extra arch support and cushioning to distribute pressure more evenly across your feet.
If you have a muscle imbalance then regular, targeted stretching of your calves and feet is also a healthy foot practice that can prevent foot ailments like plantar fasciitis.
Stretching the calves is especially helpful as it reduces strain on the plantar fascia. Check out the best exercises for plantar fasciitis. You can do your exercise routine before bed and when you wake up to prevent this painful condition from affecting your mornings.
Some patients have found rolling a tennis ball/ golf ball under their foot can be helpful to break up the inflammation to the area. Or rolling a wrapped frozen water bottle (no longer than 4 mins, then remove, wait to warm then walk) reduces inflammation build up
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete's foot can affect up to 15% of the global population!
It's a fungal infection that usually occurs on the skin between the toes. However it can also start and spread to the arches and then to the boarder of the foot. It can be itchy, red scaly looking and sometimes crack. Inbetween the toes the skin can look more damp than normal.
Prevention
Athletes foot is prevented if you reduce the causes. It enjoys dark, moist environments with an ample food supply. So your feet can be a perfect place for this to thrive. It can be contagious but also you can be more prone to catching it. So,
-if your feet are kept in a constant moist environment.
- you go to public pools and walk around barefooted.
- if you put your socks on right after having a bath or shower...
All these issues increase the risk of catching Athletes foot and allowing it to spread.
Prevention is linked to good foot hygiene. Therefore, make sure you wear slippers or flip-flops in public areas such as locker rooms or pools, and avoid walking barefoot in these places.
You should also make sure your feet stay clean and dry, as fungus thrives in moist environments. Opt for moisture-wicking socks, foot deodorants and breathable shoes. And never put on your shoes while your feet are damp!
If you are daily in the same shoes then try to use 2 pairs of shoes. Use one one day and one pair another day to allow the shoes to dry out. Change the insoles regularly.
Morton’s Neuroma
Some experts believe that one in three people will experience a Morton’s neuroma at some point.
It is characterized by a thickening of the tissue around the nerves inbetween the balls of toes (typically between the 3rd and 4th balls of the toes), and causes pain and discomfort in the ball of your foot.
You can get neuromas in other parts of the foot, but between the 3rd and 4th ball of the toes is called a Mortons neuroma
Prevention
Prevention is the best treatment for a Mortons Neuroma. Preventing the rubbing and thickening of the nerves is a priority. Unfortunately as the nerve thickens there is a chance that it will not go back to normal.
Preventing a neuroma is simply by wearing wider footwear in the toebox.
You can tell if it is your shoes just by removing the shoes and your soreness should subside.
Remember that work shoes, normal outdoor shoes and even slippers can all have an affect on compressing the toes together.
Having a heeled shoe puts more pressure upon the balls of your foot- so reducing arch height is also helpful (and if you must wear high heels, make sure they're the healthy kind!).
Custom orthotics can provide a way to splay the balls of the foot so even if the neuroma has thickened, it can reduce the pressure the balls of the foot are placing upon the nerves.
Ingrown Toenails
Our toenails can be a bit troublesome sometimes —they crack, curl, get too thick, and sometimes even surprise us with strange colours! But one of the most common toenail conditions is ingrown toenails. Two out of every ten people visiting a healthcare provider for a foot issue end up complaining about this painful nuisance.
Ingrown toenails can occur when a spike of nail is pressing into the skin. It can also happen if you have pincer like nails (involuted) and those nails press into the skin.
If you have wider nails, the skin on the side of your toe can be more prone to go into the nail. If the toes are kept in a damp environment then the skin and nails will be soft and more easily press into one another
Prevention
Prevention comes with finding the cause and preferable no home treatment (in many cases it can make it worse). Apart from scratching your socks, placing a "V" into the nail doesn't do anything.
Poor nail care is usually the main culprit especially cutting down the sides of the nail. It is better to allow the nail to grow past the skin line and then cut to the contour of the nail. Cutting straight across can leave angles and cutting down the sides can leave spikes of nail.
If your nails are curled around or thickened then professional footcare can help thin down the nail and offer treatments for the curved nail. Reducing dampness can reduce ingrown toenails. Wider footwear (and non tight socks) can reduce the risk of compressing the skin into the nail.
In some cases it can be hard to cut your nails effectively, if this is the case then having a medical pedicure from a professional is usually a good preventative option.
Calluses
Almost everyone will get at least a small foot callus in their lifetime and is a common foot issue.
They are thickened areas of skin that develop due to repeated friction or pressure. Initially they can be pain free but as time continues then the callus can build up and adds pressure that that area. This adds more callus and now a cycle starts.
Eventually too much pressure and the skin starts to break down and dry blood can appear within the skin.
Prevention
Callus is best treated by prevention- finding out why the hard skin is there in the first place.
So a footcare professional will look at your feet and assess where the hard skin is and then find the cause- where is that pressure coming from. They will then reduce down the hard skin, to break that pressure cycle, then offer advice on how to prevent the hard skin coming back- or reducing its build up.
In many cases this is due to poor fitting footwear or a mechanical issue with the foot.
Preventing callus build up can be done once a week with a plastic footfile when the foot is dry. Pumice stones are used when the foot is wet.
But it is usually a good idea to check the cause by a footcare professional as sometimes too much file or pumice use can make the area sore, affect the good skin surrounding the callus or even make the area worse as you might go too deep.
Dry skin is prevented where you moisturize your feet regularly (but not inbetween your toes).
It will also help the callus not crack but it won't prevent the callus build up- as that is caused through pressure.
August 15, 2024
Whether they're discoloured, cracked, ingrown, curly, or on the verge of falling off, toenail anatomy can be fragile and our nails can do funny things. A less commonly discussed issue is a secondary toenail. Also known as an accessory toenail or petaloid toenail, a secondary toenail is a sneaky little extra nail twin that grows alongside or beneath the pinky toenail. This abnormal toenail growth can be concerning, so it’s natural to have questions.
Signs You Have a Secondary Toenail
It’s important to know the difference between an ingrown toenail and an accessory toenail.
First, ingrown toenails can grow on any toe, whereas a secondary toenail appears on the fifth, smallest toe.
Ingrown toenails are also far more common, and pierce the skin rather than growing alongside the nail.
Secondary toenails are thin in nature and often don’t cause pain, infection or swelling like ingrown toenails do (although it is possible).
Lastly, ingrown toenails form on the side of the nail unit, whereas secondary toenails grow underneath the proper nail.
What Causes a Secondary Toenail?
A secondary toenail is a rare phenomenon.
It often makes an unexpected appearance after trauma or injury to the nail bed. You may notice your nail growing differently after stubbing or hurting it. Chronic pressure from tight shoes or less-than-perfect nail trimming can also coax this extra nail into existence.
Do You Need Surgery For Secondary Toenails?
Studies show that the treatment of choice for this extra pinky toenail is an excision, especially if it’s infected. A partial or total nail avulsion from Toronto’s Feet First Clinic may be the solution you need, but you’ll have to schedule a proper foot assessment to determine the best course of action.
Treatment of accessory toenails targets the original toenail, not the second one. The second toenail should grow properly after the “main” nail is removed.
