Toenail Anatomy: Exploring the Structure and Functions of Different Parts

Written by Erica Halpern on June 19, 2023

Last updated March 20, 2024

Toenails serve a critical role in the health of our feet. They are are sensory organs that act like a shield, providing a critical layer of protection. The various parts of the toenail comprise toenail anatomy. These parts work together to protect the underlying tissues of the toe and aid in walking and other activities.

Toenails may look like a singular unit, they’re actually pretty complex. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the structure and functions of the different parts of our toenail anatomy, providing a deeper understanding of this often-overlooked aspect of foot health.

Nail plate

The nail plate is the hard part of the nail and is comprised of a tough protective protein called alpha-keratin. Keratin adds strength and durability to the nail. The nail plate grows out from the nail matrix. It is translucent, and its colour can vary from white to yellowish-brown, depending on the thickness and the presence of underlying tissues. The end of the nail plate is part of the nail you trim away when clipping your toenails.

Nail bed

The nail bed is the skin under the nail. It nourishes and supports the nail. The nail bed is composed of blood vessels, nerves, and cells called melanocytes, all of which combine to produce the pigment that gives the nail its colour. When the nail bed is damaged, you may notice your toenail appears to change colour. For instance, your nail bed may produce a purple/darkish colour known as a black toenail, which occurs when the nail bed is damaged and pools blood.

Nail matrix

Did you know it takes roughly 18 months for a toenail to grow its entire length? This is thanks to the nail matrix, which helps dictate toenail growth. The nail matrix is the part of the nail bed that produces new nail cells. It is at the base of the nail plate, just beneath the cuticle. The nail matrix contains specialized cells called keratinocytes, which produce the protein that forms the nail plate.

Lunula

The lunula is the crescent-shaped white area at the base of the nail plate. It’s the actively-growing component of the nail. The lunula is sometimes called the “half-moon” of the nail due to its curvature and half-ringed shape.

Cuticle

The cuticle is the thin skin layer covering the nail plate’s base. It protects new nails from bacteria when they grow from the root, and also helps to keep the nail plate hydrated.

Nail folds

The nail folds are the skin folds surrounding the sides and base of the nail plate. They help to anchor the nail plate in place and provide support and protection to the surrounding tissues. Nail folds direct the nail growth in the correct direction and shape. When the nail folds are damaged, you may experience horizontal grooves across the nail, known as Beau’s lines.

Nail groove

The nail groove separates the nail plate and the nail fold. It helps to direct water and debris away from the nail bed.

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About Author: Erica Halpern

Erica is the operations manager at Feet First Clinic. Since 2021, she has been writing, researching and editing website and social media content. She also oversees Feet First Clinic’s daily and strategic operations to ensure the best possible experience for our clients. Her goal is to ensure patients are equipped with the knowledge and solutions they need to help with their pain.

Learn more about Erica Halpern

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May 18, 2021

Black Toenails: Everything You Need To Know

Black toenails can be alarming when you notice one, especially since Discoloured toenails, in general, are abnormal. Luckily, most black toenails are not something we need to worry about, and their presence is usually attributed to bruising or bleeding underneath the nail. That being said, there are some rare instances where black toenails are caused by something more serious, like complications arising from a fungal infection or chronic ingrown toenails. Likewise, we think it's important to touch on those unlikely, yet urgent, scenarios! We're here to address any questions you may have about black toenails, including questions about causes, preventative measures, as well as treatment methods. What Causes Black Toenails? Subungual Hematoma: There is a good chance that your black toenail is bruising or bleeding underneath the nail, also known as subungual hematoma. This can occur after Stubbing your toe, or another similar injury that caused breakage in the blood vessels underneath your nail bed. The black colouring throughout your nail is the leakage from the broken blood vessels. Similarly, subungual hematoma can be caused by wearing ill-fitting footwear that consistently wedges your toes together in a toe box that is too small for your feet. Ingrown Toenails: In rare cares, the culprit behind your black toenails can be complications resulting from recurring Ingrown toenails. Specifically, there may be black colouring throughout your nail without any known injuries or trauma to the toenail. If this sounds like you, you need to consult a doctor right away. Chronic ingrown toenails can lead to an infection, which in turn can cause necrosis. Necrosis refers to the death of cells or tissues. It is extremely rare, yet can occur if you have Diabetes and low blood circulation in your feet. If you are a diabetic, you should rule out this possibility and see your doctor as soon as possible. Fungal Infection / Toenail Fungus: It is possible the discolouration in your nail bed is an accumulation of debris caused by a Fungal infection. In this case, the nail will likely look different from a black toenail caused by subungual hematoma. This is because your toenail will also take on a yellowish colour. The black discolouring will likely not spread throughout the entire nail bed. Nonetheless, it is crucial not to ignore a fungal infection that has progressed this far: Toenail fungus can be very persistent and difficult to treat if you wait - the earlier you start treatment, the better the outcome. What Treatments Are Available For Black Toenails? Depending on the cause of your black toenail, there are several ways to treat this condition. There are preventative measures you can take, as well as treatment services from a chiropodist. You should be wearing Properly fitted footwear that provides you with a roomy toe box. Your toe box should ideally provide you with 1/2 inch of space between the end of your longest toe and the end of the toe box. If your black toenail is from subungual hematoma, it will be able to heal properly in this environment. Not only that, but a proper toe box will also be key in preventing more black toenails. If you have a fungal infection, a Chiropodist can provide you with a topical anti-fungal medication. Over-the-counter products are unlikely to work. You can start routine visits for fungal nail treatment in order to prevent flare-ups and for nail debridement services, as needed. Try not to stub your toe! We know that sounds tricky, but it's an extremely common cause of black toenails. You can avoid being barefoot at home with some Cozy slippers. You should also be mindful of where common offenders are in your home or workplace, such as tables, chairs, etc. Practice proper foot care from home, including routine nail care. This should include regularly trimming and filing your toenails. Not sure how to cut toenails? Check this out. If your black toenail was caused by subungual hematoma, you should rest, keep your foot elevated, and use an ice pack. Do You Need To See A Chiropodist? Not to worry - we’re confident in our ability to help inform you and solve your concern with the least amount of discomfort possible. Call us even to ask a quick question and we’d be happy to point you in the right direction! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to cure you of any foot conditions you're struggling with. Call us at 416-769-FEET (3338) or Book Your Assessment Today!

October 3, 2024

The Importance of Proper Footwear for Kids in Fall: What Parents Need to Know

Are you wondering how much you need to invest in your kids’ foot health this fall? Not sure what all the fuss is about over getting the best fall shoes for children? While it may seem like your child’s summer shoes can last a little while longer, it’s important to take their foot health needs seriously and make sure they're set up for the fall. We’ve crafted this parent's guide to kids’ shoes in the fall to help you out! Keep reading to learn the main reasons why proper footwear for kids is essential during this beloved season. 3 Reasons Why Your Kids Need Fall Shoes They support back-to-school activities They protect feet from the elements They provide support for growing feet Support Back-to-School Activities Remember the excitement of getting a new pair of athletic shoes every year before that first day of school? Well, there’s a reason your parents did that for you! Many kids up their activity game during back-to-school season. The excitement of reuniting with friends, outdoor recess time, extracurriculars and gym class are all contributing factors to this healthy boost in physical activity. Thus, comfortable athletic shoes for children land inside the fall shoes realm. The best shoes for kids should encourage proper gait patterns. They also feature cushioning for shock absorption, which reduces stress on growing bones and joints during activities like running and jumping. Additionally, supportive footwear can prevent common foot problems such as blisters, calluses, and ankle injuries, the latter of which is a common injury for kids. It's important to ensure shoes have a snug (but not tight!) and secure fit, breathable materials, and a durable outsole for safe performance and comfort. If your child's shoes put pressure on the side of their feet, opt for wide-width shoes. Protect Feet From The Elements Shoes are always designed with seasonality in mind, and just like you need new fall boots, so do your kids. One of the reasons is the slowly declining temperatures and damp, cold conditions. While September and early October are often pleasant weather-wise in Toronto, November can bring sudden frigid air and freezing rain. Wearing the wrong shoes in this weather may cause foot problems like chilblains, or small, itchy swellings caused by poor circulation in response to the cold. Studies show it often targets teenagers. Additionally, shoes designed with weatherproof materials and proper ventilation help ward off bacteria and fungi. Lastly, fall shoes for children correlate with FALL prevention. Colder weather + rain = slippery sidewalks and even black ice formation. For these, your kids need boots with a solid grip. Provide Support For Growing Feet Did you know that children’s bone, muscle and joint growth continues until they reach their early twenties? Child foot development is both fascinating AND fast paced, so you need to keep on top of your child’s needs and assess how much their feet have grown or changed shape when the fall season rolls around. Properly fitted shoes with arch support and cushioning are crucial during growth phases to ensure healthy foot alignment and prevent long-term issues. Likewise, teaching good footwear habits during the foot development phase sets your child up for success! Wearing ill-fitting shoes now can lead to problems in their adult years, and may even cause deformities like bunions and hammertoes decades down the road. Here are our top tips to make sure your child's shoes fit properly: When putting shoes on, get your kid to kick their heel back before lacing or strapping up the shoe. This puts their foot is in the proper position, with the heel in the heel cup and the arch lined up with the arch support. Then use the laces or straps to secure the foot into that position. This will ensure your kid's foot doesn't slide forward when they walk, and also allows you to properly gauge their toe room. If your kid's shoe isn't put on properly, you won't be able to determine whether it fits. Leave about 1 cm of toe room at the end of the shoe. While it's good to leave growing room, it's important not to leave too much room. Otherwise, the shoe will slip and slide around your child's foot and not be secure. And a shoe that's not secure won't provide good support. If you see a gap at the back of the shoe or the shoe moves as your child walks, go down half a size, or make sure the shoe is put on properly (see above). Use the laces to adjust the width and fit. If your child feels pressure on the sides, try loosening the laces. Don't pull the laces too tight. Instead, gently adjust them to the width of your child's feet. If the shoe still feels tight and there's enough room at the end of the shoe, look for a wide width shoe. Don't size up if there already is enough room at the end; you'll just end up with a long narrow shoe.

September 30, 2024

Fall Footwear Trends: What’s Safe and Healthy This Fall

It's time to refresh your wardrobe with the latest fall footwear trends! While staying stylish is important, it's equally crucial to ensure your feet remain safe, comfortable, and healthy throughout the season. In this guide, we’ll explore the best shoe types and features that offer protection from the elements and minimize foot pain. The Best Fall Shoe Styles Just because safe fall shoes are practical, it doesn’t mean they can’t be fashionable. While shopping, look for designs that complement your wardrobe while still offering the comfort and protection you need. You also need to make sure your shoe always corresponds properly with your activity of choice. Also, consider specific needs: from seniors to children to construction workers, every foot is unique. Fall shoe styles for this season include: Foot-friendly fall ankle boots for everyday wear. These can be simple in style and include laces or easy slip-ons made mostly of leather with pull-tabs or pull-loops. But, there are also versions designed for fall adventures and challenges with extra shock absorption and waterproofing. Speaking of shock absorption and waterproofing, this also applies to running shoes and athletic shoes for fall. Look for extra traction to prevent falls and foot injuries on slippery wet surfaces and on your favourite trail excursions. Our top picks are the Saucony Excursion GTX or the ASICS Gel-Sonoma. They're both hiking shoes with great grip and cushioning. They have a Gore-TEX upper, which is both waterproof and breathable. The Saucony Excursion GTX Heeled or platform boots that pair with your favourite dressy attire. Combat boot with an elevated sole, like the Clarks Torhill Rise, are on trend. These boots are out there, and waiting to be worn with your best duds! Brand That Make Healthy Fall Footwear Our downtown Toronto foot clinic carries only the best-of-the-best trendy and comfortable shoes. These may rotate sometimes, so be sure to stop by or call to ask what we have in stock. We often carry these brands that make first-rate fall footwear: Saucony: A great source for waterproof hiking shoes to keep your feet dry in wet conditions. ASICS: Another great option for waterproof hiking shoes. They also make waterproof running shoes. Ara: Ara makes stylish cushioned dress shoes, waterproof ankle boots and winter boots for when the weather starts to turn. Clarks: Clarks carries an array of fashionable boots. Mephisto: Mephisto's All Rounder collection has a variety of ankle-hiking boots, like the Nigata-TEX and Satika-TEX. They also have some great waterproof walking shoes that are perfect for fall. More Fall Footwear Essentials to Consider: Shoes may steal the spotlight in fall footwear, but they’re not the whole show. Here are more fall must-haves: Orthopedic slippers you can wear inside: These are great for people with musculoskeletal conditions like plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, metatarsalgia, and more, because they often have moulded foot beds and deep heel cups to provide arch support. One example is the Aetrex Mandy (below). Custom orthotics or insoles to wear with your footwear:. Check that your fall shoes have removable footbeds to accommodate these. Compression stockings to stimulate blood flow and keep your feet extra toasty. Moisture-wicking socks to control foot odour and ward off fungal infections.

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 26, 2024

Children’s Foot Development: Developmental Milestones and Concerns

As children’s foot development takes its first steps, it’s common to encounter a few bumps along the way. From in-toeing to Sever’s disease, these growing pains are part of the journey as little ones explore the world with developing feet. Let’s take a look at what foot conditions might correspond with your child’s age. Ages 1-3: In-Toeing and Toe-Walking Troublesome toes occurring during the “terrible twos” can be concerning. But these quirky walking patterns are totally normal developmental milestones for children's foot development. No cause for alarm or invasive treatment! In-toeing, also known as pigeon-toeing, is when a child's feet turn inward instead of pointing straight ahead while walking. Toe walking is when a child walks on the balls of their feet with their heels off the ground. Up to Ages 3-4: Flat Feet Children around this age will have pen planus, also known as fallen arches or flat feet. This is when the entire sole of their foot contacts the ground while standing and walking. Traditional children's foot development is at play here, as arches in children's feet develop around age 6. No treatment is generally needed for flat feet before this point, unless your child’s flat feet persist as they age, in which case you may want to consider custom orthotics, stability shoes and other treatments for flat feet. 5+ Years Old: Blisters As kids get older, gain a sense of independence and participate in more physical extracurricular activities and outdoor play, they may start to develop skin conditions on their feet. Enter: blisters. These are a pretty common condition that’s usually harmless, but can painful and bothersome for kids when they walk. Blisters form as a result of excessive friction between shoes and the foot’s skin. Read here to learn the best ways of preventing foot problems like blisters and how to choose the right shoes for children! Puberty and Growth Spurts: Sever’s Disease Did you know that the concept "growing pains" in children is not what most people think it is? While kids may experience pain as they grow, the pain itself is not caused by growing. But what can cause pain for kids going through puberty is something called Sever’s Disease, which is like a kid’s-only version of injuries like plantar fasciitis, Achille’s tendonitis and heel spurs. Sever's disease kicks in when a growing heel gets overworked, causing inflammation. It leads to sharp heel pain, especially when kids are on the move, like during sports and playtime! Kids between 9 and 14 are the most vulnerable. Solid foot care for kids can help offset Sever’s disease. Try the RICE method: rest, ice, compression and elevation. You should also buy your child supportive footwear to ease the strain on the heel. Avoiding high-impact activities can also help speed up recovery.

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Toenail Anatomy: Exploring the Structure and Functions of Different Parts

Nail plate

Nail bed

Nail matrix

Lunula

Cuticle

Nail folds

Nail groove

Toenail care and health live at Feet First Clinic

About Author: Erica Halpern

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

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