Thickened Toenails

Thickened ToenailWhat is it?

It really is just what it says in the title, but it can be caused by a number of things.

What are the symptoms?

Thickened nails are often pain free but can become painful if they are not managed appropriately.  The thickening of the nail can create added pressure on the nail bed or sulcus which can become inflamed.   In more severe cases, it can become infected, producing pus and bleeding if the nail pierces the skin..

What causes it?

  • One off trauma such as dropping something on the nail.
  • Repeated trauma such as rubbing on ill fitting footwear.
  • Conditions which effect the nail such as psoriasis or fungal nails.
  • May be caused by trauma or ill fitting footwear.

What should you do?

Thick nails are difficult to cut so filing them down is often the preferred option.

If it is infected bath your foot in warm salt water and cover it up with a dressing and go see your local podiatrist.

When to seek help?

The chances are if you are reading this blog you may already have a nail that requires treatment by a podiatrist.  The podiatrist can thin the nail down using a drill which is a painless procedure normally.  They may be required to do this for you regularly.  Nail surgery may be required if you have a thickened nail which gives you persistent problems.   This procedure is done following a local aesthetic to ensure the procedure is pain free and the nail bed is then sterilised using a chemical called phenol.

Can footwear cause nail pain?

Yes it can!  Appropriate footwear especially a deep toe box to accommodate the toenail is essential to provide pressure relief.

See More Foot Conditions

If you are still looking for the correct foot condition have a look at our full list of foot conditions or try our virtual foot to help narrow down the conditions to those relevant to you.

If you are having trouble finding the correct foot condition and you are in pain you should make an appointment with the appropriate medical practitioner in your area.