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Toenails                                                         Foot Care

Toenails are there to protect the skin lying beneath them. Unfortunately from time to time the toenail can be damaged.

Common Complaints

The most common example of damaged toenails are ingrown toenails. These are caused by a splinter of the nail piercing the side of the toe and digging into the flesh. The toe may then weep or bleed, becoming red, shiny, swollen and infected.

Causes

The most common cause of injury to toenails is cutting nails too short or down at the sides. Other causes could be direct injury, a particular style of walking or poor foot, toe or nail structure. Ill-fitting footwear or hosiery will aggravate any problems.

Prevention

Keep your feet clean by washing daily and drying thoroughly. Always wear clean hosiery and properly fitting shoes that allow the feet to breathe.  Cut toenails straight across, but not too short, with proper nail clippers. If you are unsure or unable to cut your own toenails, please seek help from our Podiatrist at “A Foot Above”.

Advice if problems occur

  • Bathing the foot in warm salty water will help prevent infection and reduce inflammation
     
  • On no account cut the nail
     
  • Put on a clean dressing over the toe
     
  • Avoid enclosing the toes in shoes and wear sandals instead
     
  • Seek advice and treatment from our Podiatrist at "A Foot Above"

Treatment

This is relatively painless and varies depending on how severe the problem is.  If there is no infection, the Podiatrist will smooth the edge of the nail, remove any splinters and/or apply a cotton wool pack behind the offending portion of the nail.

If the toe is infected, you may need antibiotics. The Podiatrist will cleanse the area, apply a sterile dressing and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.

You should be able to walk straight away, although it is advisable to rest the foot as much as possible.

Athletes Foot | Chilblains | Corns | Cracked Heels
Fungal Nail Infection | Sweaty Feet | Toenails | Verruca

Copyright © 2008 - A Foot Above
  Last modified:  17-Aug-2008