Nail conditions include any development in the nail
or nail bed that adversely affects the health of the toe. While there are a
multitude of nail conditions that can be listed the most common afflictions will
be listed in this article:
Ingrown Toenails
This is by far one of the most common conditions
seen by doctors and podiatrists. It is most often causes by incorrect nail
trimming techniques (nails being cut too short or in an unorthodox fashion),
trauma to the toe, wearing tight shoes, and in some cases, nails that naturally
curve sharply into the skin and can cause severe foot pain. The level of treatment depends on the level of
injury and whether or not infection has developed. The ingrown nail is usually
lifted out of the skin using various methods although nails are sometimes
completely removed. This nail condition can be prevented by trimming toenails
straight across and wearing comfortable shoes that fit well.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections are usually indicated by the presence of a discoloration or thickening of the nails that also causes them to separate from the nail bed. Nails may turn white, yellow, or green and a foul odour and/or discharge may be present as well. If nail fungus isn’t treated the nail bed itself may become infected, which tends to be more painful and more difficult to treat. Antifungal creams or pills are usually the first line of treatment and professional treatment of the nails is often recommended as well. Keeping feet and socks clean and dry is usually sufficient enough to reduce the risk of developing a fungal infection on the foot.
Deformed
Nails
Deformed
nails can occur for a variety of reasons but barring an underlying illness it
is usually caused by a high-impact toe-stubbing or dropping a markedly heavy
object onto the foot. Generally speaking, accidental trauma is one of the major
causes of deformed nails, which may become thickened or develop ridges. There
is little to be done in this instance except protect the injured toe/foot and
try to be more careful in the future.
Black or Blue Nails
Unless the nails are a light blue
color (which may indicate respiratory or circulatory issues) black or blue
nails are usually the result of an acute or chronic injury to the toe and
signal that blood vessels have broken. The biggest culprits are sports
activities that involve sudden stops and a high volume of lateral motion, such
as basketball and tennis. Black and blue nails are also often caused by a heavy
objects being dropped on the foot. Regardless of the reason for the discoloration
the toe often becomes quite sore due to the build up of blood, and a hole may
be drilled in the nail to allow for drainage, which reduces pressure and pain.
The nail will often fall off during healing and a new nail will grow to replace
it.
Most conditions can be prevented
by keeping the feet clean and dry, by wearing clean and dry socks, and by
investing in shoes that provide proper cushioning and support. Orthotic devices
may also help to keep the foot stable and well supported. Trimming the nails properly
is absolutely essential, and diabetics should take extra steps, as nail
conditions can become bigger health issues if not properly treated.
Suzy Pickhall, who has been a foot care expert over the past thirty years has written a viable guide on how to combat Insoles for Plantar Fascitis, and a guide on Orthotics for Over Pronation.
