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NAIL PROBLEMS

NAIL PROBLEMS

Comprehensive Care for Healthy Nails

Nail problems can be more than just a cosmetic concern—they can indicate underlying health issues or lead to discomfort and pain. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we provide expert care for a wide range of nail problems, helping to restore the health and appearance of your nails. Whether you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail, a fungal infection, or another nail issue, our experienced podiatrists are here to provide effective treatments tailored to your needs.

Common Nail Problems

Nail problems can affect individuals of all ages and may result from various factors, including injury, infection, or improper nail care. Here are some of the most common nail issues we treat:

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and trauma to the nail.

Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis)

Fungal infections of the nail can cause the nail to become thick, discolored, brittle, and distorted. This condition is common in individuals who frequently expose their feet to warm, moist environments, such as public pools or locker rooms. Fungal infections can be difficult to treat and may require antifungal medications or laser therapy.

Nail Trauma

Trauma to the nail, such as stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it, can cause the nail to become bruised, split, or even fall off. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may involve simple at-home care or more advanced interventions.

Nail Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can also affect the nails, leading to pitting, discoloration, thickening, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. Nail psoriasis can be challenging to manage and often requires specialized treatment to control symptoms.

Paronychia

Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nail, often caused by bacteria or fungi. It can cause redness, swelling, and pus-filled blisters around the nail. This condition may develop suddenly (acute) or slowly over time (chronic), and treatment typically involves antibiotics, antifungal medications, or drainage of any abscesses.

Nail Dystrophy

Nail dystrophy refers to abnormal growth or appearance of the nails, which may result from an underlying medical condition, trauma, or infection. Dystrophic nails may be thickened, discolored, ridged, or crumbling and may require a thorough evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Brittle Nails

Brittle nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including frequent exposure to water, harsh chemicals, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying health conditions. Brittle nails are prone to splitting, peeling, and breaking, which can be both painful and frustrating.

Clubbed Nails

Clubbing of the nails is characterized by the rounding and thickening of the fingertips, causing the nails to curve downward. This condition can be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as lung or heart disease, and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Diagnosing Nail Problems

Proper diagnosis of nail problems is essential for effective treatment. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, our podiatrists will conduct a thorough examination of your nails, review your medical history, and may perform diagnostic tests such as nail clippings, cultures, or biopsies to determine the underlying cause of your nail issue.

Treatment Options for Nail Problems

Treatment for nail problems varies depending on the condition, severity, and underlying cause. Our podiatrists will create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs, which may include:

Proper Nail Care

Education on proper nail trimming techniques, foot hygiene, and the use of protective footwear can help prevent and manage many nail problems.

Medications

Antifungal creams, oral antifungal medications, topical steroids, or antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infections, inflammation, or other nail conditions.

Laser Therapy

For fungal nail infections, laser therapy can effectively target and eliminate the fungus, promoting healthy nail regrowth without the side effects associated with oral medications.

Surgical Intervention

In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to remove a portion of the nail or the entire nail to treat conditions like ingrown toenails, persistent fungal infections, or nail dystrophy.

Management of Underlying Conditions

If your nail problem is linked to an underlying health condition, our podiatrists will work with you to manage that condition, whether it involves addressing systemic diseases, nutritional deficiencies, or other contributing factors.

Preventing Nail Problems

Prevention is key to maintaining healthy nails. Here are some tips to help prevent common nail problems:

Trim Nails Properly

Always cut your nails straight across and avoid rounding the corners, which can lead to ingrown toenails. Use clean, sharp nail clippers and file rough edges to prevent snags.

Maintain Good Foot Hygiene

Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid walking barefoot in public areas to reduce the risk of fungal infections.

Choose the Right Footwear

Wear shoes that fit properly and provide enough room for your toes. Tight shoes can contribute to nail trauma and ingrown toenails.

Protect Your Nails

Wear protective footwear in environments where your nails might be at risk for injury, such as construction sites or heavy work areas.

Moisturize Regularly

Apply moisturizer to your nails and cuticles to prevent dryness and brittleness.

Why Choose Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic?

At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for all your nail health needs. With five convenient locations in Charlotte University, Ballantyne, South Park, Concord, and Harrisburg, our experienced podiatrists are here to help you achieve healthy, beautiful nails. We offer personalized treatment plans, advanced diagnostic tools, and the latest treatment options to address a wide range of nail problems.


If you’re experiencing nail problems, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule an appointment today to get the expert care you need to restore your nails to optimal health.

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