Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them

Written by Brittany Stuckless on October 5, 2023

Last updated August 7, 2024

Medically reviewed by Connie Christou, D. Ch.

When it comes to toenail anatomy, certain factors can affect structure and growth pattern. Case in point: curly toenails. They don’t look quite right and the truth is, there are several potential culprits. Sometimes it can be an underlying health condition presenting symptoms via your nails, and other times it is a direct toenail condition. As a side note, it’s also wise to ensure curling toenails don’t co-exist with/turn into ingrown toenails, which may become infected.

Let’s take a look at what might be causing your curling toenails, and what you can do about it!

Causes of Curly Toenails

Onychauxis

Onychauxis is the general term for abnormal toenail thickening. It is usually caused by trauma. The toenails thicken excessively, eventually causing the nails to curl and turn white or yellow. They can be more prone to fungal infection once the toenail is traumatized. The nail plate may also separate from the nail bed. Diabetes patients in particular should be on the lookout for diabetes-related onychomycosis and onychauxis, or “ram horn,” and other severe abnormalities caused by toenail thickening and curling.

Onychomycosis

This is a fungal toenail infection in the nail unit (the nail plate, surrounding soft tissues and nail folds). It usually results in nail thickening and the formation of pincer nails (curly toenails).

Autoimmune Illnesses and Deficiencies

Lupus, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and thyroid disorders can all cause thickened toenails that eventually degrade and curl. Severe iron deficiency can also cause curly toenails since iron is so critical for maintaining our nail and foot health.

Ill-Fitting Footwear

Perhaps the most common cause of curly toenails is also the most avoidable — simply neglecting foot care and failing to buy shoes that fit well. Wearing shoes that are far too tight for years (perhaps because you’re procrastinating a proper shoe fitting) is a mistake. When you wear shoes with minimal space in the toe box, the shoe will squeeze both sides of the toe, disrupting normal nail growth and bending the nail root or matrix.

Medications

Drug-induced nail disease is a very real concern for those taking necessary medicines. Some examples of medications that cause curly toenails and other nail growth disruptions include chemotherapy drugs, lithium, and Retinoids.

Genetics

Sometimes your gene pool is responsible for your curly toenails. Your mom and dad can pass down hereditary characteristics like the shape and thickness of your toenails, as well as how much skin you have surrounding the toenails. But don’t worry if you feel like you have no control over genetic traits – proper foot care can still help you manage curly toenails.

Here are some of the best treatments for curly toenails:

Medical Pedicures: Chiropodists can properly clean and trim the nails to promote healthy growth.
Antifungal Medicines: These can help with onychomycosis.
OnyFix: Modern, non-invasive treatment that involves using a special paste to correct nail growth.
At-home foot care: Remember to keep your feet and nails clean, but don’t try to trim them on your own if they’re severely curled or ingrown. If your toenails look like this, it’s best to contact a chiropodist.

Diabetic foot care from a Toronto foot clinic.

Don't Let Your Toenails Hold You Back!

The chiropodists at downtown Toronto’s Feet First Clinic can help you manage abnormal toenail growth with comprehensive nail care treatments! Call us at (416) 769-3338 or book an appointment here!

Second body image by studio4art from Freepik, Third body image by kroshka__nastya from Freepik

About Author: Brittany Stuckless

Brittany holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Memorial University of Newfoundland. With a diverse background in journalism and marketing, she got her start as a freelance content writer. She currently works as a Marketing Assistant at Real Food for Real Kids in addition to her role as a writer at Feet First Clinic. Previously, Brittany has been a journalist for the Ontario Learning Development Foundation and Immigrant Muse magazine, and an Administrative and Marketing Assistant at Evolve Chiropractic and Physiotherapy. Originally from Newfoundland, she has lived in Toronto since 2014.

Learn more about Brittany Stuckless

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July 11, 2024

Why You Shouldn’t Use Fingernail Clippers for Your Toenails

There's always the right tool for the job. Using each tool for its intended purpose is best, or you risk doing more damage than good. That's why fingernail clippers and toenail clippers exist. To understand why, it's important to understand the difference between toenails and fingernails. Toenails are thicker, harder, and grow slower than fingernails because your feet and hands serve different functions. Toenails also have a greater surface area. In this blog post, we explain why you should avoid using fingernail clippers for your toenails and opt for toenail clippers exclusively. Reduce the risk of bacterial or fungal contamination For one, separating your nail tools prevents contamination and possible spread of bacteria and fungus. Given how exposed your hands are every day, you wouldn't want to spread any bacteria to your feet. When in doubt, clean your clippers with 70%—90% isopropyl alcohol. Fingernail clippers may not work on toenails When looking at fingernail vs. toenail clippers, the size difference is stark. Fingernail clippers are smaller, narrower, and curved. Toenail clippers are larger, wider, and straight across, as you should trim your toenails straight across. Cutting them with a curved edge increases your risk of ingrown toenails. If you want more guidance on choosing the tool for your toenails, read our blog post on our top choices for toenail clippers. Limit the risk of cracking and damaging your toenails Using sharp, rigid toenail clippers makes trimming easy and more effective. Using fingernail clippers means you'll need to apply more pressure to cut the nail and risk damaging or even cracking the toenail. If you don’t have the right tools, enough time, or simply the confidence to focus on a nail trim, try a medical pedicure instead. It includes the right nail trimming procedure and includes moisturization, thorough cleaning, and more. Before the nail trim, a chiropodist also examines your feet for other foot conditions. Prevent ingrown toenails You'll also notice the curvature of fingernail vs. toenail clippers. Fingernail clippers are curved and meant to follow the contours of your fingernails. On the other hand, toenails are plateaued and should be cut straight across. Using a curved tool on your toenails puts you at risk of jagged edges, nail splitting, or could be a root cause of ingrown toenails. If you wish, use a nail file to round the edges. This tool is necessary for properly smoothing the edges of the nails. After the trimming, there will likely be some jagged edges, sharp corners, and “spikes.”

February 11, 2021

Best Toenail Clippers

Did you know your toenails can grow upwards of 1 mm, if not more, per month? With that type of growth, regular trimming and cutting is essential. Proper nail care is a critical part of your overall hygiene. Healthy nails are smooth, and free of spots whereas signs of nail problems include pitting, ridges, streaks, yellowing and other forms of discolouration. Proper nail care is particularly important because nails act as a protector for the delicate tissues at the end of your toes. Think of them as a shield. Trimming your nails is one way to keep your toenails healthy. Proper nail care reduces the risk of trauma, Cracked Toenails, infected toenails, and limits the build-up of Nail Fungus. A weekly routine of checking on your nails allows you to stay on top of its health at a rate that's both manageable, and not too stressful. Below, you'll find our picks for the best products, how to cut your toenails properly, how often you should cut your toenails, and much more. Top toenail clippers: Our picks Seki Edge Stainless Steel Professional Nail Nipper If tough and thickened nails are a challenge, the Seki Edge Stainless Steel Professional Nail Nippers offers a clean trimming for fresh feet. Revlon Toenail Clipper Revlon's classic toenail clipper has curved blades that follow your toenail shape for easy, accurate trimming. Plain, simple, and affordable. Nippes Solingen Stainless Steel Toenail Nipper Shape tough and thick nails with the Nippes Solingen Stainless Steel Toenail Nippers. Its spring and lock mechanism, along with its expert sharpness allow for precise cutting. Seki Edge Stainless Steel Toenail Clipper The cutting edge is hand-grinded and honed for precise cutting. Tempered-twice to be long lasting and have a sharp edge. Little effort required to cut through the thickest nails. Premax Stainless Steel Toenail Clippers Premax's Stainless Steel Toenail Clippers feature a classic swivel top, sloped for best ergonomic hold. The blade is polished, sharp, and crescent-shaped, allowing you to clip through the toughest of nails while keeping them properly contoured. Erbe Solingen Nickel-Plated Pedicure Scissors Erbe Solingen Nickel-Plated Pedicure Scissors are designed to cut tough nails cleanly and carefully. The angle of the blades of this well-engineered scissors encourages a straight-across cut to reduce the likelihood of ingrown toenails. The handles are made to enhance the strength of the hand and the power of the cut, assuring a clean and even trim every time. Niegeloh Solingen TopInox Stainless Steel Toenail Clippers Niegeloh's TopInox Stainless Steel Toenail Clippers features a sharp and curved cutting edge, allowing these clippers to cut through hard and difficult nails. product expertise, items individually tested. How to cut your toenails like an expert As simple as it may seem, Trimming and Filing your Toenails correctly is an important part of maintaining proper foot health. It can save you from pesky and rather painful nail problems, such as ingrown toenails, broken toenails, and toenail related infections. Wash and Dry Your Feet: Thoroughly cleaning and drying your feet will also ensure your tools do not slip and you are able to see the nail edge clearly. Without regular hygiene, harmful microrganisms including bacteria and fungi may develop. Have the Right Tool(s) Available: To trim your toenails, you will need a pair of sharp nail clippers or professional nail nippers if you have very thick nails. You will also need a nail file. Clip Nails Straight Across: When cutting the toenail, the safest way to do it is to cut the nail straight across. This will ensure the toenail continues to grow forward, rather than outwards. Then, if necessary, cut along the straight line of your original cut to trim the edges while following the natural shape of your toe. Examine twice, cut once, instead of cutting too deep. File Sharp or Jagged Edges: Always file any sharp corners or jagged edges to ensure the nail edge is smooth. Sharp corners can catch on socks or even poke the surrounding skin. This also ensures you do not leave a nail spike behind to grow into the skin and cause a very painful ingrown toenail. For our comprehensive guide on trimming your nails, read How To Cut Your Toenails Like a Professional. How often should you clip your toenails? Toenails can grow about 1 mm a month, so trimming your nails every 6-8 weeks, if not more regularly, is ideal. Other factors including your footwear and activity level can vary your frequency, and it may be advisable to trim your nails more often. If you're a runner, for example, you may be more comfortable with regular trims as you want to avoid toenail conditions like Toenail Fungus and Black Toenails. Did you also know that your toenails grow faster in the summer than in the winter? Cutting your toenails too short could heighten your risk for Ingrown Toenails. If you leave your toenails too long, they may tear on your socks, shoes, or another object. Trim just the white part of your nail, and avoid the pink-coloured nail beneath that line. Toenail clippers vs. toenail scissors First off, use tools that are specifically designed for your toenails. Avoid tools such as regular scissors or knives that aren’t specifically designed for cutting nails. Precision is greater with toenail scissors, as the gentle curve of the blade makes it easier to shape your nails. You can also cut from the side which puts your nail into plain view better than clippers. Lastly, scissors cause less trauma to the nail as the smoother cut is more accurate. However, trimming your nails with scissors can be difficult on your non-dominant side. Both have their pros and cons, and it comes down to personal choice. Ideally, you have both, in case you need to make more precise cuts, or if you have difficulty on your non-dominant side, you can turn to nail clippers. Straight vs. curved clippers: What's the difference? Your fingernails and toenails are different, and require different tools for the job. You may be tempted to use fingernail clippers for your toes, but because of the different shape, and width of the nails, you should avoid using curved fingernail clippers for your toes. Look for toenail clippers with a straight edge. Using a curved tool for your toenails puts you at risk of digging into the tender sides of your nail bed and increases your risk for ingrown toenails. By following these tips, you're well on your way to proper toenail care. Your toenail needs live here We have all your solution under one roof. Call or Book Today and we’ll have you in asap! Open 6 days a week, we’ll be happy to help inform you and solve all your concerns any day at your convenience. Call us at 416-769-3338 or Click Above to Book Your Assessment Today!

November 7, 2024

6 Myths About Foot Odor

Foot odor is a frustrating problem; it goes to show that non-painful foot conditions can be as life altering as painful ones. There are many foot odour myths floating around the internet. In this article, we'll break down some of the most common foot odour myths, and give you the facts about foot odour causes and how to prevent it. 6 Myths About Foot Odour: Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition All Foot Odour Smells the Same Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour If You Have Foot Odour, you Aren’t Showering or Bathing Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather Myth 1: Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour Foot odour, also known as bromodosis, is the unpleasant smell that comes from the feet due to a combination of sweat and bacteria. The feet have numerous sweat glands, which produce moisture to regulate temperature and prevent skin from drying out. Plantar hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessively sweaty feet. Sweat is a major contributor to foot odour and provides the moisture needed for it to thrive, however, other factors are also at play. The Main Causes of Foot Odour General bacterial buildup and everyday life! (wearing shoes all day long, etc). Fungal infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot can lead to odour as fungi produce waste products during growth. Diet: Certain foods, like garlic and onions, can affect sweat composition and lead to a noticeable foot odour. Health conditions: Conditions other than plantar hyperhidrosis can cause foot odour, including diabetes, particularly when ulcers and wounds omit a strong smell. Other conditions include thyroid disorders (they may cause excessive sweating) or kidney and liver issues. Footwear material: Shoes made from non-breathable materials trap even normal sweat production, increasing moisture and bacterial growth. Preventing foot odour often means choosing breathable, waterproof shoes. Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can contribute to foot odour. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1aaNATnXvWw Foot Odour Myth # 2: Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition It’s true that one of the causes of foot odour can be an underlying health condition, but that doesn't mean it's serious. The most common cause of foot odour is a general build up of sweat and bacteria that you can tackle yourself. Foot odour is often caused by everyday factors like wearing shoes made from non-breathable materials or not changing socks frequently enough. In most cases, simple steps like improving hygiene, airing out shoes, or using foot deodorants (sprays, powders or creams) can help control the smell. While it's important to be mindful of persistent odour or other accompanying symptoms, the vast majority of foot odour issues are easily managed with at-home care and do not indicate a serious health condition. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/aFdZ042koME Foot Odour Myth # 3: All Foot Odour Smells the Same Foot odour can vary significantly based on several factors, including the underlying cause, personal hygiene, diet, and the type of bacteria or fungi present. For example, open wounds and sores will smell different than smelly, sweaty shoes. Here are some common smells: Sour: Often caused by bacteria breaking down sweat, resulting in lactic acid production. Musty: May be associated with fungal infections or warm, moist environments. Vinegar-like: Often linked to sweat and potentially neglectful hygiene. Ammonia: May indicate dehydration or a dietary imbalance. Rotten: This odour can be a sign of a more serious infection. Foot Odour Myth 4: Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour While going barefoot might seem like a good idea for reducing foot odour, it can actually have the opposite effect in some cases. While it’s always good to air out your feet, going barefoot outside exposes your feet to various surfaces that may harbour bacteria and fungi. Walking on dirty or damp surfaces can lead to the accumulation of these microorganisms, potentially worsening foot odour. In fact, foot fungus (one of the most common causes of foot odour) is often caused by walking barefoot in public places. Additionally, sweat can still pool in the crevices of your feet without socks and shoes, allowing bacteria to thrive. Instead of eliminating odour, going barefoot may introduce new sources of smell. Wearing breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks and changing them regularly is a much better idea. Myth 5: If You Have Foot Odour, You Aren’t Showering or Bathing This is completely untrue since foot odour is often linked to other conditions like plantar hyperhidrosis and fungal infections. Therefore, foot odour is is a symptom rather than a cause. It also often develops throughout the day, so you can shower every morning and still experience smelly feet when you get home at night. That said, you should pay more attention to foot-specific hygiene and clean your feet frequently. Check out this blog article on foot hygiene tips to learn what to do. Myth 6: Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather Foot odour is commonly associated with hot weather, but it can occur year-round, regardless of the temperature. While warm conditions can exacerbate sweating and create a breeding ground for bacteria, factors such as personal hygiene, footwear choice, and lifestyle also play significant roles in foot odour. For example, wearing insulated shoes in fall or winter weather can trap moisture and heat, leading to odour even when temperatures are low. Additionally, individuals who sweat excessively—regardless of the season—are more likely to experience foot odour. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain proper foot care and hygiene practices throughout the year to prevent odour, not just during the warmer months.

October 24, 2024

How to Prevent Toenail Fungus: Tips from a Foot Specialist

There are two common fungal infections that can target your feet. For your skin, it’s athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), and for your nails, it’s fungal toenail (onychomycosis). Fun fact: Onychomycosis is the name for nail anatomy changes caused by contagious fungus, while dystrophic is the term for any other abnormalities that affect how your nails look or grow. Today’s blog will focus solely on toenail fungus. You’ll learn what it is and how to treat it, as well as some top fungal toenail prevention tips recommended by our Toronto chiropodists. Toenail Fungus Symptoms Sometimes toenail fungus is mild and barely noticeable. But fungal toenail can present more severely if you’re immunocompromised, such as if you have diabetes, or a senior. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms: Drastic changes in the nail’s appearance: it can look much thicker, have a yellowish, brown colour, and be very brittle and prone to cracks, despite thickening. Unpleasant odour coming from the nail: the smell is often reported to be sour or like cheese. The nail starts lifting off the nail bed: this is because debris starts to accumulate and lifts the nail up so it can’t reattach. Pain, swelling and bleeding in severe cases. Toenail Fungus Prevention: Foot Specialist Advice The most important fact to remember about fungal toenail is that it’s contagious. Since fungal infections spread easily in damp, shared spaces like pools, gyms, and shower rooms, the best defense is keeping your feet clean and protected! Here are some top, Toronto-chiropodist-recommended tips to remember: Follow a strict, yet fun and relaxing, foot hygiene routine. It’s a part of self care, after all! Wear breathable footwear. Opt for shoes made from materials that allow airflow to keep your feet dry. Change socks daily. Fresh socks prevent moisture buildup, which fungi love. Avoid going barefoot in public places. Use flip-flops or shower shoes to protect your feet in shared spaces. Keep your toenails trimmed and clean. Regular maintenance helps prevent infections from taking hold. Get a professional medical pedicure if you don’t have time to focus on nail care. How to Treat Toenail Fungus Once fungus has gotten a hold of your nails, it’s time to think about treatment and eradicating the problem. Unfortunately, you can’t do much to treat toenail fungus yourself at home, and you often need a chiropodist’s help. Luckily, treatments are easy to follow and non-invasive. Here’s what a foot specialist can do: Perform nail debridement to remove infected parts of the nail. Use prescription-strength topical antifungal medicine on the nail (it penetrates the actual fungus) Educate you on products you can use going forward to prevent re-infection, like the best moisture-wicking socks, shoes, foot creams, deodorants and more.

September 19, 2024

Foot Care for Runners: Preventing Injuries and Maximizing Performance

Whether you're an experienced marathoner or an occasional runner, healthy, happy feet are core to your running success. After all, our feet are the unsung heroes that carry us through kilometres of training and races. Without proper care, our feet and body can only take us so far before we develop aches and injuries. Proactively caring for your feet can help prevent injuries and boost your performance. In this blog post, we dive into our top foot care tips for runners to keep your feet in tip-top shape. Choose the right shoes It all starts with the right pair of running shoes. Everyone's feet are different, so there's no one-size-fits-all. Make sure your shoes fit well—there should be about a finger's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The best way to find your ideal shoe is to visit a specialty running store (like our Toronto foot clinic!) where they can analyze your gait and recommend a shoe that suits your running style and foot type. Replace your shoes regularly Another one of our top foot care tips for runners is to replace your running shoes when they wear out. Running shoes don't last forever. Generally, they should be replaced every 450-800km. Worn-out shoes lose their shock absorption, grip, and support, which can lead to injuries. Look for signs like flattened soles or uneven tread to know when it's time for a new pair. You may also notice wrinkles among the various areas of cushioning. Incorporate foot-strengthening exercises Strong feet are less prone to injury. Simple exercises like toe curls, heel raises, and foot stretches can help build strength and flexibility. Try using a resistance band to stretch your feet and calves, and don't forget to roll a tennis ball under your foot to relieve tension and keep things limber. You may also find a lacrosse ball effective for a more rigid plantar fascia massage. Pay attention to your running form Sometimes, foot pain can be traced back to improper running form. Ensure you're landing with your feet underneath your hips rather than over-striding, which can put unnecessary stress on your feet. If you're unsure about your form, consider working with a coach or getting a gait analysis to pinpoint any issues. Stretch and foam roll Stretching isn't just for your legs and back; your feet need love, too. Incorporate foot stretches into your routine, focusing on the Achilles tendon, calves, and the bottom of your feet. For example, do a calf stretch by standing on a step and letting your heels drop below the level of the step. Foam rolling can also help, particularly if you're experiencing tightness in your plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Keep your shoes dry Blisters and fungal infections love a moist environment. Make sure your feet are dry before putting on socks and running shoes. Choose moisture-wicking socks designed to remove moisture from your skin to help keep things dry. This can prevent blisters and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Consider using foot powder or antiperspirant if you're prone to sweaty feet. For additional moisture prevention, buy two of the same pairs of running shoes and cycle them in and out. Longer durations between uses allow the cushioning to decompress and give your shoes more time to dry thoroughly. Listen to your body Our final foot care tip for runners is to always listen to your body. If you're experiencing persistent foot pain, don't push through it. Ignoring pain can lead to more serious injuries later. Rest, assess, and seek professional advice if needed. Remember, rest days are just as important as training days. They give your feet and body the time they need to recover and adapt to the stress of running.

September 5, 2024

How to Treat and Prevent Athlete’s Foot: Tips from Chiropodists

Athlete's foot is a fungus that infects the skin on your feet. Many people get it, and it can cause a lot of problems. Your feet may itch, turn red, and peel when you have it. This fungus grows best in places that are warm and damp. The good news is that you can treat and stop athlete's foot if you know what to do. Here are some tips from chiropodists (foot specialists) to help you keep your feet healthy and free from fungus. Treatment strategies See a Chiropodist Because of all the moisture buildup on our feet, fungal infections can grow out of control very quickly; they're stubborn and persistent, and once the infection gets under the toenail, it becomes very difficult to treat. In addition, over-the-counter anti-fungal medications are not very effective unless the infection is in the very early stages. That's why it's important to see a chiropodist as soon as you notice any symptoms. A chiropodist will debride and clean up any fungal growth on the skin and prescribe a topical anti-fungal medication to help nip the athlete's foot in the bud before it spreads to the toenails. Oral anti-fungal medications, while effective, are often not recommended due to their side effects. Often, topical prescription anti-fungal medication and persistence are the best way to go. Maintain a rigid hygiene routine Your feet and body will thank you if you keep the infected area clean and dry. Wash your feet daily with soap and water and dry them well between your toes. Fungus grows best in damp places, so ensure your feet are dry before putting on socks and shoes. If you're particularly prone to sweaty feet, you can also try an anti-bacterial foot deodorant like Gehwol's Foot Deodorant spray. This can help prevent Athlete's foot, and even treat it in its very early stages. Avoid scratching Scratching the infected spot can cause other bacterial infections. To soothe the itch, try using antifungal creams or powders. If the infection gets worse or spreads, talk to a doctor. Change socks regularly Choose cotton or merino wool socks that let your feet breathe and wick away sweat. Wear fresh socks every day and change them after physical activity or when they get wet. This helps reduce moisture build-up, which can worsen the fungal infection. Prevention Tips Avoid walking barefoot in public Athlete's foot, along with other fungal infections, are contagious and spread when skin comes into contact with an infected surface. Therefore, always make sure you are wearing some kind of protective footwear in public spaces - like flip flops or slippers - in locker rooms, communal showers, pool decks and gymnasiums. Stick to a foot care routine Clean your feet and dry them well between your toes. Also make sure you cut and clean your toenails often, as fungi can hide under the toenails. Just make sure you don't cut them too short, or you can get an ingrown toenail. Put on the right shoes Pick shoes that let air flow through them. Avoid (if possible) wearing the same shoes all day, every day, and ensure they're dry before putting them on. Use flip-flops or water-safe sandals in public spots like pools or gym showers to avoid touching infected surfaces. Clean Your Shoes Fungal spores can hang around in shoes, which will feed the infection. To combat this, spray your shoes and socks with antifungal and antibacterial products, such as hypochlorous acid, zinc oxide or zinc incoleate, and dry them out before you put them on again. You can use Gehwol Foot & Shoe Deodorant Spray in your shoes, or dust Gehwol Foot Powder into your socks. These products contain zinc oxide and zinc ricinoleate, respectively, which are great for maintaining a healthy environment in your shoes. You can find these products at our Toronto foot clinic. Keep personal items to yourself Don't let others use your towels, socks, or shoes, and vice versa. Fungal infections are contagious and spread through touching or sharing personal items with people who have a fungal infection.

September 2, 2024

How to Recognize and Treat Ingrown Toenails Safely

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

5 Common Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them

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.

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