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Curly toenail becoming ingrown toenail
October 5, 2023

Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them

When it comes to toenail anatomy, a lot can change the structure and growth pattern of your toenails. Case in point: curly toenails. They don’t look quite right and, the truth is, there are several potential causes behind their development. Sometimes it can be an underlying health condition wreaking havoc on your nails, and other times it may be a more direct toenail condition. 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

Image Credit: Istock

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). Diabetes patients in particular should be on the lookout for diabetes-related onychomycosis, 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. 

Image Credit: Studio4art From Freepik

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.

Image credit: FreePik by kroshka__nastya

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 become severely curled or ingrown, it’s best to contact a chiropodist.
Image Credit: Istock

Don't Let Your Toenails Hold You Back!

The chiropodists at 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 using the form below or the button at the top of your browser!

Related Posts

June 7, 2019
3 Toenail Problems That We Can Help you With
You’ve pulled off your sock and noticed that something is wrong with your big toe. Maybe it’s swollen and sends a sharp twinge up your foot with each step, or maybe the nail has changed from its normal clear shade into a completely different colour. There’s no need to panic. Read this brief list of common toenail problems, and what steps you should take to resolve them. Ingrown Toenails An ingrown toenail is when the side of the toenail cuts into the nailbed and causes the area to become swollen and painful. Sometimes the weight of a bedsheet or a sock will be too much to handle. Common causes of ingrown toenails are inadequate footwear, ill-fitting socks and cutting the nails too short.   For an at-home treatment, you can soak your foot in warm water with Epsom salt to reduce inflammation. Keep the affected area clean and place antibiotic cream over it to fight off infection. When appropriate, wear open-toed sandals to avoid putting pressure on the area. These steps could be enough to resolve the issue.   If you have diabetes or circulation problems, you should contact licensed chiropodists in Toronto to take care of your ingrown immediately because the area will be vulnerable to infection. Ignoring the toenail problem or trying to fix it on your own could put your health at risk. At Feet First Clinic, you can get your nail treated safely.   Common signs of this problem are hardened brittle nails, build-up beneath the surface, and discoloration (usually white or yellow). You can catch a toenail fungal infection from walking around barefoot in public areas with lots of moisture like swimming pools, locker rooms and gym showers. People who are elderly, who have diabetes or who have weakened immune systems will be more susceptible to fungal nail infection.      You should schedule a nail fungus treatment appointment with a chiropodist when you spot any of the symptoms. Since there are different types of fungi, you will want to get a professional opinion before you try to get rid of your own.     Bruised Toenails When shoes are too small, the toes hit the edge of the toe box over and over again, resulting in black toenails that never seem to go away. Make sure that there is enough space for your toes to wiggle in the toe box. If you’re a runner or jogger, you’ll also notice that you get black toenails whenever you’re stepping up your training for endurance goals like half-marathons and full marathons. The repetitive friction from running will hurt your toenails. When you notice a black toenail, soak your feet in a bath of warm water and Epsom salt. If your shoes don’t fit, get a new pair that offers enough room and support. The best way to heal a bruised toenail is to give it time to recover. If the nail falls off, try to keep the area clean and see your doctor right away. Whatever you do, do not remove the nail on your own. Sometimes you can’t fix a toenail problem on your own. Trying to DIY your treatment could accidentally cause more damage and expose yourself to harmful bacteria. When Epsom salt soaks and rest can’t fix the issue, seeking help from a professional is your best bet for a cure.    
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November 16, 2023
Medical Pedicure: What It Is and Why You Might Need One
When it comes to self-care and pampering, we often focus on treating ourselves to facials, massages, or spa days while neglecting one of our body's hardest working and overlooked parts: our feet. Enter the world of medical pedicures, a rejuvenating and therapeutic experience that goes beyond the typical nail salon visit. In this blog post, we look at medical pedicures and uncover the many benefits they offer for the health of your feet.  Whether seeking relief from foot-related ailments or well-deserved self-care, a medical pedicure might be the secret to the happy and healthy feet you've been waiting for. What's a medical pedicure? A medical pedicure, also known as a medi-pedi, is a specialized foot treatment performed by a trained medical professional, typically a podiatrist or chiropodist. Unlike a cosmetic pedicure you might receive at a spa or nail salon, a medical pedicure focuses on the medical aspects of foot care - there is no nail polish or foot soaking. It ususally involves the following: Examination and consultation. Before the procedure, a chiropodist assesses your feet, discusses any concerns or foot-related issues you may have, and creates a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Nail and callus care. A chiropodist trims and shapes your toenails, carefully avoiding ingrown toenails. They will also remove calluses and corns to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. Hygiene. A medical pedicure places a strong emphasis on hygiene. The instruments used are sterilized (or disposable) to prevent the risk of infection. Skin and cuticle care. Your provider will moisturize and care for the skin on your feet, paying particular attention to dry or cracked areas. They will also address overgrown or problematic cuticles. Why should I get a medical pedicure? Only you can decide whether you need a medical pedicure, but we want to lay out the benefits to help you make an informed decision. There are several reasons why you may need one: Treatment of Specific Foot Conditions Medical pedicures are not just about pampering but about addressing specific foot conditions. Whether you're dealing with fungal infections, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, or thickened and discoloured nails, your healthcare specialist can offer treatments and recommendations for future care. Proper Nail Care While traditional pedicures focus primarily on nail aesthetics, medical pedicures focus on nail health. Sure, they will properly trim and file your toenails, but they'll also go the extra mile in preventing ingrown toenails and addressing any nail conditions like toenail fungus. Healthy Skin The skincare aspect of a medical pedicure involves moisturizing and nurturing the skin on your feet. Dry, cracked, or rough skin patches will be taken care of. Plus, we can provide product recommendations to help you maintain healthy, soft feet between appointments. Education and Guidance A significant part of a medical pedicure is education. You'll receive valuable guidance on proper foot care practices. In addition, with conditions like recurring calluses or ingrown toenails, the chiropodist can determine whether there could be any biomechanical factors at play. These insights empower you to take better care of your feet daily, reducing the likelihood of future issues.
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October 12, 2023
Black Spot on Toenail: Should You Be Worried?
Generally speaking, you don’t have to worry about a black spot on the toenail. Incidents like . In many cases, you can let your toenail heal naturally, but if you have a fungal infection or severe pain, you should schedule an appointment with your chiropodist. Often, incidents like stubbing your toe can cause a black toenail, but they can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition you are already aware you have.  Source: istock Causes of Black Toenail If you see a full black toenail or a black spot on your toenail, it is likely for one of the following three reasons: Trauma (injury) Natural pigmentation changes Fungal toenail In some (rarer) cases, a serious illness like heart disease, diabetes or melanoma can cause a black toenail.  Trauma (Injury) Sometimes our foot health takes a turn for the worse when we injure ourselves. Dropping a heavy object on your toe or stubbing your toe on a piece of furniture can cause a subungual hematoma, or bleeding and bruising under the nail. This gives it a black appearance and it is usually tender to the touch.  There are certain medical procedures (like drainage and decompression) that treat black toenails caused by injury, but for minor cases, resting and using ice while elevating your injury is sufficient.  Source: istock Natural Pigmentation Changes For people with darker skin tones, black patches can sometimes appear underneath the toenails over time. Medical News Today notes that this will usually happen to matching toes on each foot. So if your black spot is happening on corresponding toes, this may be the reason.  Fungal Toenail Fungal toenail infections usually cause yellow or brown discolouration and thickening of the nail. But when debris builds under the nail bed, it can appear black.  There are topical and oral antifungal medications you can take to treat fungal toenail. In some cases, you can even have your nail removed. But prevention is just as important when it comes to contagious foot conditions. Proper toenail care like keeping your nails (and the rest of your feet) clean can ward off infections, and for extra peace of mind, you can enjoy regular medical pedicures with your chiropodist. Source: istock. While Fungal Toenail usually looks thick and yellowish brown, there can aslo be black spots caused by debris build up.
Read More
October 5, 2023
Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them
When it comes to toenail anatomy, a lot can change the structure and growth pattern of your toenails. Case in point: curly toenails. They don't look quite right and, the truth is, there are several potential causes behind their development. Sometimes it can be an underlying health condition wreaking havoc on your nails, and other times it may be a more direct toenail condition. 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 Image Credit: Istock 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). Diabetes patients in particular should be on the lookout for diabetes-related onychomycosis, 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.  Image Credit: Studio4art From Freepik 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. Image credit: FreePik by kroshka__nastya 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 become severely curled or ingrown, it's best to contact a chiropodist. Image Credit: Istock
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August 22, 2023
Understanding Beau’s Lines: The Science Behind These Nail Changes
Beau's lines are changes in your toenail anatomy and appearance that may indicate an underlying illness. These changes can be difficult to detect unless you inspect your nail health, so it's important to take note if you see them. Systemic illnesses, which affect the entire body rather than a single organ or body part, may be the reason behind your nail changes. Photo by jannoon028 from FreePik The Science Behind Nail Changes: Beau's Lines Beau's nails generally look like deep, horizontal grooves that go from side to side, almost as if you have a band wrapped around your finger that astoundingly makes an indent in the nail. They can affect both adults and children.  They are your body's way of telling you, "Hey! I have too much to focus on right now, so I'm neglecting your normal nail growth pattern."  This means that Beau's nails aren't a problem but a symptom. Similar to your hair and skin, aesthetic changes to toenails and fingernails often serve as a warning your general health is under attack in some way. Research suggests that illnesses interrupt natural nail matrix growth and that the longer you suffer from an illness, the deeper the grooves can become. Photo by Rawpixel.com from Freepik Do Beau's Lines Mean Something Is Wrong With My Health? Not necessarily, but systemic illnesses are often the reason behind these deep nail grooves. If you notice them, you should see your family doctor immediately. If you know you're suffering from an illness and notice Beau's lines, there is a high chance the two are connected. Beau's lines may also linger for a while after you've recovered from your illness or begin treatment. You may have a serious illness if you have more than one nail with Beau's lines, but if you just have one, it may be from a toenail infection, blunt-force trauma injury, or exposure to cold temperatures. However, Beau's lines in all 20 fingernails and toenails often indicate disease or aggressive treatment for a disease, like chemotherapy. Some common causes of Beau's lines include:  Heart attacks and poor heart health Pneumonia Strep infections Measles Mumps Diabetes High fevers/infections Infections in the nail fold Malnutrition Skin disease Thyroid conditions Hypocalcemia (low calcium) Raynaud's Disease Severe emotional stress, traumatic life events, and generalized anxiety disorders can also wreak havoc on nail growth. Treatment Getting rid of Beau's lines depends on how successfully you treat the underlying cause, whether it be injury, illness, stress or infection. However, chiropody treatments like Onyfix or medical pedicures can help encourage proper nail growth and keep your nails clean while you treat the root cause. 
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July 17, 2023
Black Toenail: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Tips
Black toenails can be an unsightly but under-discussed topic for some individuals. The condition can stem from an injury, an underlying health issue, or ill-fitting shoes. A black toenail is likely a bruise under the nail, called a subungual hematoma. Seeing a black toenail at first glance can be alarming and uncomfortable, especially for first-timers. Fortunately, the discolouration and potential pain associated with blackened toenails are generally not a cause for concern.  While the condition may not always be serious, understanding its possible causes, prevention methods, and treatment options is crucial for maintaining overall foot health and finding relief. Today, we'll focus on black toenails. In this article, you'll learn more about the common causes, treatment options, and prevention tips for black toenails: Causes of black toenails Causes of black toenails typically fall under three categories: injury, footwear, or an underlying health issue like a fungal infection. Below we dive into the three most likely culprits in more depth. Trauma or injury Stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or repetitive pressure from running or soccer can lead to a black toenail. Repeated pressure or friction to the nail bed can damage the blood vessels under the nail, ultimately creating a black toenail. For instance, marathon runners often get black toenails after running long distances. Ill-fitting footwear Shoes that are too tight or do not provide adequate toe room can cause repeated pressure and friction on the toenail. Whether on the job or wearing the wrong shoes for your partaking activity, ill-fitting footwear can be the culprit for black toenails. Fungal infection Sometimes, a black toenail can result from a fungal infection that affects the nail bed. Rare causes If none of the above apply to you, you shouldn't necessarily rule out rarer causes. In this case, consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis. Rare causes of black toenails include: Malignant melanoma Chronic ingrown nail Other health problems Treatment for a black toenail Generally, black toenails aren't severe and are more of a sight for sore eyes. If you have a black toenail, you can do the following: Observation and self-care: If the black toenail is painless and there are no signs of infection, you can let the nail heal independently. It will typically take several weeks for the discoloured nail to grow naturally. The discolouration could take 6-8 months to disappear as the nail grows and you trim away the culprit. Rest and elevation: Resting and elevating the foot above heart level can help reduce swelling and promote healing. Ice: Applying ice packs wrapped in a cloth to the affected area can help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling. Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can alleviate pain if necessary. Protective padding: You can use cushioned bandages or moleskin padding to protect the affected toe to prevent further irritation. Professional treatment: Sometimes, a foot specialist may need to drain the blood from under the nail to relieve pressure and facilitate healing. Paint your nails: If aesthetics are a primary concern, you can cover the nail with nail polish to hide the visible signs of a black toenail. Just first make sure you don't have any exposed skin or abrasions, as this can then lead to infection. Prevention tips for black toenails Prevention for black toenails hones in on proper nail care and hygiene and investing in the proper footwear: Invest in your footwear: Ensure that your shoes fit well and provide enough room for your toes to move freely. Avoid tight or narrow shoes that can cause pressure on the toenails. Investing in the proper footwear also means having specific footwear for each purpose - for instance, at work, casually, or while playing a sport.  Protect your feet: If you engage in activities that pose a higher risk of a toe injury, such as sports or heavy lifting, consider wearing protective footwear or toe guards. Trim your toenails: Trim your toenails straight and avoid cutting them too short to prevent trauma or ingrown nails. For more tips on how to cut your toenails, read our nail trimming guide. Further, use toenail clippers for your toenails, not fingernail clippers. Maintain good foot hygiene and habits: Keep your feet clean and dry to minimize the risk of fungal infections affecting the nails. Regular inspections: Regularly examine your feet and nails for any signs of damage or discolouration. Promptly address any issues to prevent further complications. If the black toenail is accompanied by severe pain, signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or discharge), or if it doesn't improve within a few weeks, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the condition, provide appropriate treatment, and ensure no underlying issues require further attention.
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June 29, 2023
2023 Summer Camp Essentials: Kids Camp Shoes Must-Haves
2023 camp shoes for kids are just as high-quality as adult footwear. Gone are the days of compromising on quality and comfort for our little adventurers. After all, children deserve the same support and comfort we enjoy from our favourite brands. And one of the most crucial times of the year to invest in your child's feet is right before they head off to summer camp to run, explore, swim, hike, and lose all their inhibitions until school starts again.  Photo by RDNE Stock project from Pexels! You know your kids will exert high energy levels at camp and you want to ensure they don't return with a fresh, painful foot condition they didn't have before. And for that, you need some shoe recommendations for the summer months. Let's explore some of the best camp activity shoes and the top outdoor shoes for kids!  2023 Kids Footwear Must-Haves: Summer Camp Shoes Saucony Peregrine Shield ASICS GT-1000 Birkenstock Arizona Birkenstock Arizona EVA Saucony Peregrine Shield For hiking and exploring Plenty of children spend their summer camp days hiking. While exploration can be a lure for many kids, it does pose the threat of slipping and falling on a trail, which can cause a serious injury without the right shoe. Since camp terrain can be unforgiving, the Saucony Peregrine Shield is one of the best shoe recommendations for kids who love hiking. When it comes to traction and grip, you can't beat them. The Shield version of the Peregrine series also includes a water-resistant upper and waterproof membrane. This feature helps keep your child's feet dry and protected when hiking in wet or rainy conditions or crossing streams and puddles. The Peregrine Shield also features everything else you need in a solid camp shoe, like breathability, protection, cushioning, and stability. Saucony Peregrine Shield for kids ASICS GT-1000 For sports, running, and high-impact activities  ASICS has always been a top shoe contender for adults with different foot types. But many parents may not realize they have a tot-sized version of their GT-1000 for your child's summer camp needs. The ASICS GT-1000 for children features cushioning technology that helps absorb impact and provides a comfortable fit. This can be beneficial during summer camp activities that involve a lot of walking, running, or playing. These shoes also offer a good balance of support, cushioning, and traction, and are the best choice for the countless sports and high-impact activities kids enjoy at camp. ASICS GT-1000 for kids Birkenstock Arizona EVA For the pool, lakes and beach For the little ones who seem more like fish than children sometimes, comfortable shoes with waterproof features are essential.  A nice sturdy pair of Birkenstocks made with EVA are one of the best kids footwear options for protecting your child's feet from contagious fungal infections like fungal toenail and athlete's foot, which notoriously breed in common areas like pools, public showers, bathrooms, and locker rooms. (never let your child run around in these areas without footwear!) They're also great for wearing on the beach or next to a lake.  EVA is a waterproof rubber material that is also highly durable and provides cushioning. The waterproof qualities come from the sealed bubbles within the foamed rubber and the absence of stitches, allowing water to roll off the shoe without penetrating it.  Birkenstock Arizona EVA for kids Birkenstock Arizona For everything in between Some days at summer camp are low key. Kids may be spending time in the cafeteria, playing low-impact games that don't require runners, walking around aimlessly, or simply sitting around the fire telling stories. For those days, they need a neutral sandal they can use for walking without pain and fatigue. It should be breathable, but without the flimsy material and complete lack of support you get in a flip flop (psst: ditch the flip flops). Birkenstock Arizonas for kids come with all the sleek sophistication the adult version has, like the shock absorbing sole, supportive cork footbed, moisture-wicking and strengthening jute fibers, and footbed liner. These all come together to create the ultimate layering of comfort, support, protection, and durability. Birkenstock Arizona for kids
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Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

If you’ve been to the clinic before, chances are you had the pleasure of meeting Carolina! Carolina’s daily goal is going above and beyond to make sure patients are always completely satisfied. Having worked in the podiatry industry for 22 years, Carolina brings a wealth of knowledge pertaining to client service, insurance policies, and procedures.​ She steers the ship to make sure everything runs smoothly on the daily. Carolina is known for spicing up every outfit with her signature costume jewellery.