If you have a curved toenail, it might feel urgent to fix it since it could indicate a nail problem. So, how can you straighten a curved toenail when you notice it?
Home remedies can help straighten curved toenails, but if the condition persists, it’s best to see a podiatrist. Curved toenails can sometimes be a sign of a more serious condition that needs medical attention.
In this article, we’ll cover the causes of curved toenails, how to prevent them, when to see a doctor, and what to expect from medical treatments.
Causes of Curved Toenails
Curved toenails, also known as ingrown toenails, can be caused by several factors:
1. Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can cause them to grow into the skin.
2. Trauma or Injury: Stubbing your toe or dropping heavy objects on it can cause toenails to grow irregularly.
3. Hereditary Factors: Genetics can influence the shape of your nails. If your family has a history of curved toenails, you might too.
4. Shoe Pressure: Wearing tight shoes can squeeze your toes, making it more likely for toenails to grow into the skin.
5. Fungal Infections: These infections can change the texture and growth pattern of your nails.
6. Excessive Sweating: This can soften the skin around your toenails, making them more likely to become ingrown.
7. Improper Nail Care: Picking at or tearing your nails can lead to irregular growth.
8. Anatomical Factors: Some people naturally have nails more prone to curving.
How to Straighten Curved Toenails
To encourage your toenails to grow straight, you need consistent care:
1. Soak Your Feet: Soak your feet in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften the nails.
2. Gentle Pushing: Use a clean cotton swab or orange stick to gently push back the skin around the curved part of the nail.
3. Nail Straightening Devices: Consider using devices or splints designed to guide nail growth. Consult a podiatrist before use.
4. Consult a Podiatrist: If curved toenails cause discomfort, see a foot doctor for advice and treatment.
5. Be Patient: Straightening toenails takes time and consistent care.
Avoid self-treatment if you have diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or other circulatory disorders. Seek medical care immediately.
How to Prevent Curved Toenails
Prevent curved toenails with proper nail care:
– Trim Toenails Properly: Cut toenails straight across and don’t dig into corners.
– Use Toenail Clippers: Always use proper clippers for cutting your nails.
– Choose Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that give your toes enough room.
– Moisturize: Regularly apply cuticle oil to your toenails and cuticles.
Medical Treatment for Curved Toenails
If home remedies don’t help, or the condition worsens, consider medical treatment options:
1. Lifting the Nail Edge: A healthcare provider may lift the ingrown nail and place cotton or floss underneath to encourage proper growth.
2. Trimming or Removing the Nail: In severe cases, part of the nail may need to be trimmed or removed under local anesthesia.
3. Prescription Medications: Antibiotics may be prescribed if there’s an infection.
4. Partial Nail Plate Removal: For chronic cases, part of the nail and nail matrix may be removed.
5. Chemical Cauterization: Phenol may be applied to prevent regrowth of the ingrown nail portion.
6. Laser Treatment: Laser therapy can destroy cells responsible for nail growth.
7. Nail Bracing: A small device can be applied to guide the nail’s growth.
Medical treatment depends on how severe the condition is. It’s essential to seek help if you have severe pain, infection, or chronic issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I make my curved toenails straight? You can trim them straight across and reshape them as a last resort.
– Why are my toenails growing curved? Reasons include heredity, improper trimming, tight shoes, repeated trauma, and more.
Conclusion
Curved toenails can result from improper trimming, tight shoes, trauma, hereditary factors, and other reasons. You can try home remedies, but if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes or if the toenails become painful, it’s important to see a doctor.