Our toenails tell us a lot about our overall health and well-being. Nails contain a protein called keratin, just like skin and hair. This is what makes nails strong, hard plates or shields. The matrix in the nail bed creates new skin cells which push out the old ones creating a nail. If the nail matrix is damaged or injured, this can affect the way the nail grows.
To properly deal with toenail problems, it’s important to know what has caused them to become dry, brittle, discoloured, crumbly, smelly or painful in the first place. Let’s explore the different causes and what can be done to help!
What Can Cause Dry, Brittle or Discoloured Toenails?
Nutrient deficiencies can affect the texture and appearance of toenails.
- Low calcium and vitamin C may result in thin, weak, and brittle nails.
- A vitamin B12 or iron deficiency may cause the nails to become white, thin, and brittle.
Certain medical conditions influence the health of our toenails.
- Diabetes may make a person more susceptible to fungal infections and can also affect the blood flow to the feet and toes, reducing necessary nutrients and oxygen.
- Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint inflammation and toe deformities which often results in excess pressure on toe and nails.
- Psoriasis can cause pitting in the nail plate and may result in a rough surface texture.
- HHypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid can make nails brittle.
- Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause thinning, ridges and splitting of the nail plate.
- Chemotherapy or radiation may also change the shape and texture of nails.
What Causes Ingrown and Fungal Toenails?
An ingrown toenail occurs when one or both sides of the nail digs into the surrounding skin. It may or may not pierce through the skin but can result in pain and discomfort and may cause redness and swelling. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can result in significant pain and infection and could force you to change the way you walk or move to protect the affected toe. Fungal toenails are common and can be uncomfortable, thickened, misshaped, discoloured, crumbly and smelly. Contagious in nature, they can spread from one person to another or from one toenail to another.
- Ill-Fitting Footwear that is too tight or small can cause microtrauma to the toes and nails, increasing the risk for ingrown and fungal toenails.
- Cutting toenails too short or ripping them off may leave a spike of nail in the corner.
- Toenail injury from trauma can inadvertently cause the nail to dig into the surrounding skin or it can damage the nail matrix increasing the risk for a fungal infection.
- Toe deformities, such as hammer toes and bunions change the position of toes, leading to increased pressure and injury to the nail.
- Genetics may influence the shape or curvature of the nail. This curvature can be so severe that the sides of the nail come together underneath and pinch the tissue of the nail bed, also known as a pincer nail.
How Can Toenail Problems be Addressed and Treated?
As mentioned above, our toenails are often the gateway to our overall health and well-being. It’s crucial to be aware of any systemic issues that need medical attention. If your toenail problems are related to microtrauma, ill-fitting footwear, toe deformities or an exaggerated curvature of the plate itself, BioPed Footcare can help!
Treatments for Toenail Problems:
- Topicals
- Over-the-counter antifungals, such as Formula 3®, an in-solution of Tolnaftate and Jojoba oil.
- Nail tinctures, such as Footlogix Nail Tincture Spray to address changes in texture and health or minor fungal toenail infections.
- Prescription antifungals to fight nail fungus, such as Jublia®.
- Photodisinfection Therapy (PDT)
- ToeFX® uses the combination of an anti-microbial serum and light is an effective treatment to eradicate toenail fungus.
- Oral medications
- Prescription medication taken by mouth to eradicate fungus from the body, including toenails.
- Addressing any systemic concerns, such as a vitamin deficiency or thyroid condition.
Come See Us!
If you are suffering with dry, brittle, or discoloured toenails, or an ingrown toenail or fungal infection, book an appointment with a BioPed lower limb clinician to figure out why and what solution could be best for you. We’d love to hear from you!
