problem big toenailsProblem Big Toenails

Big toenails are probably the most common nail to suffer damage become thickened and unsightly. As podiatrists big toenail problems are one of the most common things that turn up in our clinics. Big toenails are more prone to many conditions because of the amount of force that runs through the big toe when we walk, run, or kick a football. If we drop something heavy in the kitchen or in the garden it usually seems to make its way to the big toe.

Often, the big toe is the longest toe of the foot and as such takes excessive pressure at the end of a shoe if the fit is on the small side, leading to problem big toenails. Restrictions in big toe joints can cause the big toenail to bang repeatedly on the top of a shoe when walking. This repetitive trauma can cause changes in the structure of the nail, and can even cause damage which can allow infections to penetrate and take hold. When big toenails become thickened, they can be very uncomfortable as the extra thickness leads to extra pressure on the toe underneath.

Problem big toenails alongside other health problems can lead to complications. Diabetics, and sufferers of inflammatory arthritis and people with neurological conditions should have their feet checked regularly by a podiatrist. Excessive pressure under a nail can over time lead to a breakdown in the tissue and eventual ulceration. Ensuring nails are short and not allowed to thicken is essential for these populations.

Top tips for keeping your toenails in the best shape:

  1. Shoes. Make sure your shoes are a good fit.
  2. Shoes. Make sure the toe box isn’t too tapered or pointy (is it foot shaped?)
  3. Keep nails short and cut straight across
  4. Visit a podiatrist regularly to have your feet and shoes assessed.

The foot inspector on Problem Big Toenails

By | 2018-01-22T14:51:42+00:00 July 16th, 2014|Blog|0 Comments