Upward-growing toenails can be a source of concern and discomfort. While sometimes a natural growth pattern, this phenomenon can also indicate underlying issues affecting nail health and appearance. Understanding its causes and management can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
What Causes Toenails to Grow Upwards?
Toenails can grow upwards due to chronic trauma or repetitive pressure. This often stems from ill-fitting footwear or activities with repeated toe impact. Such pressure can damage the nail bed, leading to abnormal growth.
Genetics also play a role, as some individuals are naturally predisposed to upward-curving toenails. Conditions like onychogryphosis, or ram’s horn nails, cause the nail to become thickened, overgrown, and abnormally curved. This condition can be influenced by genetics, trauma, or poor nail care. Another related condition is pincer nail deformity, where the nail plate’s sides curve sharply inward, sometimes causing pain as it compresses the nail bed.
Improper nail care, such as cutting toenails too short or rounding corners instead of trimming straight across, can encourage incorrect growth, contributing to upward growth or ingrown nails. Fungal infections (onychomycosis) are another significant contributor, causing the nail to thicken, discolor, and become misshapen, potentially altering its growth direction. Underlying health conditions like poor circulation, psoriasis, or diabetes can also affect nail health, increasing the likelihood of abnormal growth, including upward curvature.
Managing and Preventing Upward Nail Growth
Managing upward toenail growth involves consistent home care and preventative measures. Proper nail trimming is key: cut toenails straight across, not too short, and without rounding corners. This prevents the nail from growing into surrounding skin and encourages healthy, forward growth. Soaking feet in warm water before trimming can soften thicker nails, making them easier to cut.
Wearing appropriate footwear is also important. Shoes should fit well, providing ample toe room to avoid pressure that exacerbates abnormal growth. Opt for shoes with a spacious toe box and breathable materials. Good foot hygiene, including daily washing with mild soap and thorough drying, especially between toes, helps prevent fungal infections. Changing damp socks frequently also supports foot health.
Moisturizing nails and cuticles helps maintain flexibility and overall health. Regular application of moisturizer or cuticle oil keeps the nail plate and surrounding skin hydrated. Protecting feet from repetitive trauma, such as during sports or daily activities, by wearing appropriate protective footwear or using silicone toe caps, can prevent nail damage and abnormal growth.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While many instances of upward toenail growth can be managed at home, certain signs indicate professional medical advice is necessary. If upward growth causes persistent pain, tenderness, or makes wearing shoes difficult, consult a healthcare provider. Pain, pressure, and difficulty walking are clear indicators for evaluation.
Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, warmth around the nail, or a foul smell, warrant immediate medical attention. These symptoms suggest a bacterial or fungal infection requiring prescription treatment. Significant changes in nail appearance, including discoloration, unusual thickening, crumbling, or separation from the nail bed, should also prompt a visit to a doctor or podiatrist.
If home care strategies do not improve or the problem recurs frequently, a professional can assess the underlying cause and recommend targeted treatments. Individuals with underlying health conditions like diabetes, poor circulation, or compromised immune systems should be particularly vigilant. Foot problems can be more severe in these cases, and professional guidance is important to prevent complications like ulcers or serious infections.