Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them

Written by Brittany Stuckless on October 5, 2023

Last updated July 18, 2024

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

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).

Onychauxis

This nail disorder causes the toenails to thicken excessively, eventually causing the nails to curl and turn white or yellow. 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.

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 least serious 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 antibiotics, 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

PrevPrevious Ways to Improve Blood Circulation In Your Legs and Feet

NextNext Cracked Heels in 2023: Causes and Finding Solutions

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!

July 11, 2024

Why You Shouldn’t Use Fingernail Clippers for Your Toenails

July 4, 2024

Tips For When Your Toenail Is on The Verge Of Falling Off

A toenail falling off can be uncomfortable and cause concern about damage to the toenail. The goal is to preserve the toenail's state to prevent further damage. Fortunately, if you take a few proactive steps, you can reduce the discomfort and promote healing. Here are our six tips for managing a toenail on the verge of falling off. 1. Keep the toenail area clean and dry Wash the toenail gently and often. We recommend using mild soap and water to keep it clean. Next, pat dry so as not to snag the toenail with a towel. 2. Cut the nail carefully and slowly Use clean, sterilized nail clippers to remove any dangling or loose portions of the toenail. Cut straight across without digging into the surrounding skin. The goal here is to prevent further snagging or tearing down the road. Improperly cutting your nail may also increase your risk of an ingrown toenail. In addition to trimming the toenail straight across, you should trim the toenail slowly. Don't over-cut it. Be patient with toenail growth. (It may take months to a year for a nail to fully grow out.) If in doubt, let our toenail specialists in Toronto trim your toenails for you as part of a medical pedicure. 3. Use a non-stick bandage to protect the area We recommend applying a bandage or non-sticky wrap to your toe. (Adhesive can attach itself to the toenail and be difficult to peel off without grabbing onto it.) A protective layer keeps an otherwise exposed nail bed safe. Replace the bandage regularly and keep the area dry to promote healing. 4. Antiseptic ointment is your friend Use an antiseptic ointment or petroleum jelly on the exposed nail bed to keep it moisturized and prevent infection. This may help soothe any discomfort from the loose toenail. 5. Choose comfortable and roomier footwear You'll want to reduce pressure as much as possible to prevent a loose toenail from falling off. Given that we wear footwear so often, finding shoes with ample fit can help prevent further damage to the toenails. 6. Avoid intense activity Reduce your activity level if it puts excessive pressure or strain on the affected toenail. For instance, running or high-impact sports like soccer could increase the risk of the toenail getting snagged or torn off. Give your toe some rest, and return to physical activity gradually.

June 27, 2024

Best Shoes for Construction Workers

Construction workers face challenging demands on the job site, including long hours, potential safety hazards, and variable weather conditions. There are few jobs where footwear is more important than on a construction site. Proper footwear is critical for comfort, safety, and overall health. This blog explores how to find the best shoes for construction workers. We dive into the balance between durability, safety features, and foot health, which are vital for your job. Durability Construction sites are full of heavy equipment and sharp objects and tools. Hazards range from sharp objects to heavy machinery. The best shoes and boots for construction workers should be durable, made from leather or synthetic blends, and be able to withstand abrasions and falling objects. Keep your toes and feet safe with toe caps or sturdy outsoles - ideally both. Refined safety features Safety is a top priority on the job site. When choosing footwear, opt for models that meet or exceed industry safety standards set forth by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Safety and Health. Features like steel or composite toe caps provide essential protection against impact and compression injuries, while puncture-resistant midsoles shield your feet from sharp objects on the ground. Additionally, slip-resistant outsoles help prevent accidents on wet or slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Refer to the CCOSH's guide for symbols, or markings, on footwear to determine which is appropriate for the job. Comfort Long hours spent on your feet can be grueling. It's not uncommon for construction workers to be on their feet for 10+ hours per day. Shop for shoes with adequate support through the arch and heel, and invest in removable insoles or orthotic inserts for even greater support. If you're a construction worker in Toronto, our licensed chiropodists can do a biomechanical assessment to determine the best insoles for your foot condition. Grip and footing The type of flooring used in the workplace influences comfort, especially on feet. Unforgiving surfaces like concrete are the least comfortable to work on—your feet and legs absorb all the impact compared to a softer surface. Further, slippery floors (whether smooth or wet) are hazardous for slips and falls. If not careful, you can be exposed to injuries like sprained ankles or broken foot bones. Fit Durability and safety features are effective only when your shoes fit the contours and mould of your foot. When trying construction footwear, test out the fit with the same socks and attire you'd be wearing on the job site. If you decide to purchase online, we recommend using the manufacturer's sizing guide for directions, or finding a local retailer to try the shoes on in-store.

June 20, 2024

Toenail Anatomy: Understanding the Structure Beneath Your Toes

At first glance, our toenails look like a single nail, and that's about it. However, beneath the surface is a more complex structure that makes up the nail and the bed below it. This is our toenail anatomy. Toenails and fingernails are made of Keratin. Keratin is a type of protein that gives the nail strength and protection. (There are many types of Keratin. It also comprises hair and your epidermis.) Toenails differ from fingernails in a few ways, namely their thickness and growth rate, as the external forces on your toenails are greater than those on your hands. Today, we explore toenail anatomy and how each component affects foot health. Layers of the toenail Nail plate The nail plate is the easiest part of the toenail anatomy to recognize. It's the nail itself. The colour and texture of the nail plate can vary based on factors like health, genetics, and lifestyle habits. Nail bed Next, we go a bit deeper. The nail bed is beneath the nail plate. Just like sheets and blankets are the nail plate, imagine the nail bed is the mattress or bed frame below. The nail bed is a layer of skin that nourishes the nail as it contains blood vessels and nerves. It is also the growth engine behind the nail plate. If you damage the nail bed, you'll notice nail plate abnormalities or reduced growth rates. Sometimes, a damaged nail bed will cause you to lose a toenail or experience a discoloured toenail. A subungual hematoma occurs within the nail bed and can cause a black toenail. Lunula The lunula, or "half-moon," is the pale, crescent-shaped area visible at the base of the nail. It represents the edge of the nail matrix, where new nail cells are generated. Eventually, nail growth from the lunula extends out to the outer edges of the nail, at which point you'd trim them. Nail matrix The nail matrix is the tissue beneath the cuticle at the base of the nail. It produces new nail cells, pushing older cells forward and resulting in nail growth. Damage to the nail matrix can affect the quality and growth rate of the toenail. Each nail matrix produces 196 layers of cells that combine to make your toenails.

June 6, 2024

Toenail Thickening: Why it Happens as We Age

Our feet and toes change in various ways as we age. One of these changes is toenail thickening. For some of us, toenail thickening can be more than just a minor inconvenience. It can make it difficult to cut and maintain our toenails, and can even cause pain and discomfort. In this article, we'll explain the causes of thickened toenails, and some possible treatments. Why Do Toenails Thicken with Age? Nails are made from a protein called keratin, which is produced at the nail plate at the base of the nail. Nail growth happens when nail cells multiply within the base of the nail and are pushed forward. However, as we age, the growth rate slows down, so the nail cells just pile up on top of each other, which causes them to get increasingly thicker. Toenail thickening is often a result of several factors: Reduced blood circulation The most common cause of toenail thickening is decreased blood circulation to our feet. This diminished circulation means fewer nutrients and oxygen reach the toenails, causing them to thicken over time. Age is one of the risk factor for reduced blood circulation to the feet. Natural wear and tear Years of use can damage our toenails. Factors such as ill-fitting shoes, repetitive stress from activities like running or walking, and even minor trauma can contribute to thickening. Essentially, when our toenails experience trauma, they thicken to protect themselves. As we age, wear and tear on our toenails can accumulate, which can cause them to thicken. Fungal infections Older individuals are more prone to fungal infections of the toenails, which can cause thickening, discoloration, and brittleness. These infections often thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes or communal areas. Underlying health conditions Medical conditions like psoriasis, diabetes, and peripheral arterial disease can also influence toenail health. These conditions affect circulation, which in turn slows toenail growth and causes toenails to thicken. Tips for toenail care as you age As you age, proactive steps can be taken to maintain healthy toenails and minimize thickening. By following these tips, you can feel more in control of your foot health and well-being. Regular trimming Toenail thickening can make trimming and maintaining your toenails extremely difficult. Fortunately, a licensed chiropodist is trained to specifically deal with this. A licensed chiropodist can ensure your toenails are trimmed properly to prevent ingrown toenails, promote healthy toenail growth and reduce thickening. A licensed chiropodist can also use special tools over the toenail to thin it out, which will make the toenail easier to cut and maintain. Best of all, this is all done in a sterilized environment, so you don't need to worry about fungal infections (did you know 52% of people get fungal infections after visiting nail salons?) If you decide to trim your toenails at home, make sure you invest in quality toenail clippers and avoid cutting them too short. Proper foot hygiene Wash your feet daily with soap and water, ensuring they dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Also, wear flip flops in public spaces to avoid contracting fungal infections. Comfortable footwear Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid narrow or tight shoes that can put pressure the toenails and contribute to thickening. Moisturize regularly Apply moisturizer to your feet to keep the skin and nails hydrated. This can prevent cracking and thickening of the toenails, especially in dry climates. Foot protection Wear protective footwear in risky environments like communal areas or outdoors. This can help prevent injury and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Manage underlying conditions If you have underlying health issues like diabetes, it's important to remember that they can be effectively managed. By working closely with your healthcare provider, you can improve foot circulation and reduce the risk of complications like toenail thickening.

May 30, 2024

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

As summer approaches, our feet emerge from the confines of socks and boots, ready to step into sandals and flip-flops. However, after months of neglect and hiding, our feet may not be in the best condition to be on display. This is where medical pedicures come in—a treatment that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Let's delve into the benefits of medical pedicures and why they should be on everyone's summer to-do list. Professional attention to foot health Unlike traditional pedicures, medical pedicures are performed by trained professionals called chiropodists. They prioritize foot health, ensuring your feet are healthy and feel good. Chiropodists are equipped to address various foot conditions such as calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections. They can also notice and diagnose other things that may be cause for concern, like poor circulation, warts, flat feet, and other foot conditions that may be affecting you. Most importantly, chiropodists can provide professional tips and advice on foot care. Preventative foot and nail care Regular medical pedicures can help prevent many standard foot problems before they even start. Addressing issues like calluses and ingrown toenails early on can avoid more severe complications. In addition, toenails grow faster in warm weather, so a medical pedicure in the summer is timely. Customized treatment Medical pedicures are tailored to your specific foot needs. Whether you have dry, cracked heels, thickened toenails, or sensitive skin, the treatment can be adjusted to address your concerns effectively. Chiropodists will assess your feet and recommend the appropriate action, ensuring you receive personalized care at every step. Hygiene and safety One of the primary benefits of medical pedicures is the emphasis on hygiene and safety. Sterilized instruments, disposable blades and discs, and stringent cleanliness protocols are standard practice in foot clinics. All cleaning protocols are regulated by Health Canada and the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures a safe, worry-free experience, especially those with compromised immune systems or diabetes. Stress relief It's worth remembering the relaxing aspect of a medical pedicure. Beyond the therapeutic benefits for your feet, the experience can be incredibly soothing for your mind and body. Taking time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself can lower stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.

Request an Appointment

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

Share:

Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them

Causes of Curly Toenails

Onychomycosis

Onychauxis

Autoimmune Illnesses and Deficiencies

Ill-Fitting Footwear

Medications

Genetics

Here are some of the best treatments for curly toenails:

Don't Let Your Toenails Hold You Back!

About Author: Brittany Stuckless

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Related Posts

Why You Shouldn’t Use Fingernail Clippers for Your Toenails

Best Toenail Clippers

Why You Shouldn’t Use Fingernail Clippers for Your Toenails

Tips For When Your Toenail Is on The Verge Of Falling Off

Best Shoes for Construction Workers

Toenail Anatomy: Understanding the Structure Beneath Your Toes

Toenail Thickening: Why it Happens as We Age

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

Useful Links

About Us

Our Newsletter

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)