Curled toenails, also known as involuted or pincer nails, occur when the sides of the nail plate curve inward. This inward curvature can press into the surrounding skin. This common condition can lead to discomfort or pain.
Why Toenails Curl
Toenails curl due to various factors influencing their growth and structure, including improper nail trimming, such as cutting nails too short or rounding the corners, which can encourage the nail to grow inward. Pressure from tight or ill-fitting footwear, especially shoes with a narrow toe box, can also compress the toes and force the nails to curl over time. Some individuals have a hereditary predisposition to curled nails due to natural nail growth patterns or inherited shape. Repeated trauma or injury to the nail, such as stubbing a toe or consistent pressure, can lead to nail deformation. As people age, toenails may naturally thicken and become more prone to curling; certain medical conditions like fungal infections (onychomycosis), psoriasis, diabetes, or iron deficiency anemia can also contribute to nail changes.
Home Care Strategies
Addressing curled toenails at home requires consistent nail care. Proper nail trimming involves cutting them straight across, avoiding cutting too short or rounding corners, which helps prevent inward growth. Soaking the feet in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes daily can soften the nails and surrounding skin, making them more pliable. For slightly ingrown or inward-curving nails, gently lift the edge with a cotton swab or dental floss and place a small piece underneath to encourage outward growth, performing this gently to avoid injury; moisturizing nails and cuticles helps maintain flexibility and health. Selecting appropriate footwear with ample toe room and a wide toe box is important to avoid pressure on the nails, allowing toes to spread naturally and minimize compression; over-the-counter nail softeners or files can be used, but use caution to prevent damage.
When Professional Care is Needed
Recognizing when home care is insufficient prevents complications, and signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or warmth, indicate a need for professional evaluation. If the curling causes persistent pain despite home remedies, consult a podiatrist or doctor. Worsening curling or ingrown nails also warrants professional attention. Individuals with underlying health conditions like diabetes, poor circulation, or compromised immune systems should seek professional help promptly, as minor foot issues can lead to serious complications. If home remedies have not shown any improvement after a few weeks, seek medical advice.
Medical Interventions
When home care is not enough, a podiatrist can provide medical interventions for curled toenails, including professional trimming and filing to relieve pressure. Non-surgical methods like nail bracing can reshape the nail by gently lifting and correcting its curvature over time. In severe cases, surgical options include partial or total nail avulsion, removing part or all of the nail under local anesthesia to alleviate pressure and allow for healthy regrowth. For recurrent curling, a matrixectomy may be performed to permanently destroy the nail matrix, preventing problematic regrowth. A podiatrist can also address underlying conditions like fungal infections (onychomycosis) or psoriasis.
Preventing Recurrence
Maintaining long-term toenail health involves consistent preventative habits. Regularly trim nails straight across, avoiding cutting too short or rounding edges, to guide healthy nail growth. Consistently wear well-fitting shoes with a wide toe box to ensure ample toe space and prevent pressure. Practice good foot hygiene, keeping feet clean and dry, to prevent fungal infections that contribute to issues, and protect feet from trauma, such as wearing appropriate footwear, to prevent nail damage and curling. Regularly checking feet for early signs of curling or discomfort allows for timely intervention, and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes or psoriasis is important, as these can affect nail health.