Damage to your toenails may not seem like a major problem at first, but without treatment, the seemingly minor inconvenience can quickly evolve into a serious medical concern. At Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, Texas, Scott Nelson, DPM, and his team of practitioners treat a wide range of toenail disorders. To schedule an appointment, call Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic or book online now.

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Are there different types of toenail disorders?

There are several types of toenail disorders that can impact your overall foot health. The most common include:

Ingrown toenails

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin. The condition can be extremely painful and difficult to treat on your own. While ingrown toenails most often develop in the big toe, they can affect any of your nails.

You may have an ingrown toenail if you cut your nails too short or overly rounded, injure your nail, or have abnormally large nails.

The most common symptom of an ingrown toenail is pain or redness. An infected nail can cause swelling and pus.

Fungal nails

Onychomycosis, or nail fungus, can affect any of your nails, but it’s far more common in the toenails. Most nail fungus starts as a small white or yellow spot under the nail. Over time, the spot grows and spreads.

Anybody can develop nail fungus, but you’re more likely to if you wear damp socks or walk through saunas or locker rooms barefoot.

Toenail fungus is a serious condition that can lead to discolored, thickened, or crumbled nails. For those who are immunocompromised, like individuals with diabetes, toenail fungus can even lead to severe infection.

Clubbed toenails

Clubbed toenails cause your nails to widen toward the top, like a club. The condition is typically hereditary, so you’re more likely to develop it if you have close relatives with clubbed toenails. However, an underlying condition, such as heart disease, lung disease, or cancer, may also be the culprit.

How are toenail disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosing a toenail disorder requires a comprehensive physical exam of your feet. Dr. Nelson at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic may also order additional testing, such as imaging tests and blood work.

In many instances, toenail disorders are apparent during a visual exam. However, additional testing can help determine the severity of the condition for the appropriate treatment.

What are the treatments for toenail disorders?

How your provider at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic treats your toenail disorder depends on your condition. Common treatments for toenail disorders include:

  • Topical ointments or solutions
  • Oral medications
  • Antibiotics
  • Full or partial toenail removal
  • Change in shoes
  • Custom-made orthotic shoe inserts
  • KeryFlex™ nail restoration treatment
  • Laser therapy

To learn more about toenail disorders, call Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic or schedule an appointment online now.