Toenail Problems
Category
conditionsWhat is it?
Ingrown toenails are when the toenail has broken the skin and caused an infection. This causes pain, redness, swelling and sometimes pus or blood coming out of the side of the nail. Ingrown toenails are very common, particularly in adolescents.
Some things that may lead to ingrown toenails are:
- Cutting nails too short
- Nails that have been broken or torn
- Wearing tight shoes
- Your individual nail shape
How can Our Podiatrist help?
Our Podiatrist can diagnose and treat ingrown toenails.
Treatment can include:
- Cutting the toenail and removing the offending piece of toenail
- A minor surgical procedure in some cases
Thickened Toenails
What is it?
Sometimes toenails thicken due to repeated pressure or rubbing over time. Thick toenails can be painful, especially when wearing shoes. People of any age can develop thickened toenails.
Some things that may lead to thickened toenails are:
- Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly
- Sports such as running and triathlons
How can Our Podiatrist help?
Our podiatrist can help relieve the pain and discomfort from thickened toenails.
Treatment can include:
- Reducing nail thickness with a specific drill. This is quick and painless
- Footwear changes
Fungal toenails
What is it?
Fungal toenails turn yellow, thicken and sometimes crumble or turn smelly. Fungal toenails are common and do not usually cause any pain.
Some things that may lead to fungal toenails are:
- An injury such as stubbing your toe
- Wearing shoes that put pressure on your toes
How can Our Podiatrist help?
There are many different types of fungal infections, so an accurate diagnosis from Our Podiatrist is an important step in the management of this problem.
Treatment can include:
- Topical antifungal medication
- Oral antifungal medication
