Friday, June 5, 2009

Toe nails… Why are they important?

We have provided some general information on toe nails and a list of common conditions that can be managed by the Chiropodist’s at Omni Foot Clinic. We hope you find this information helpful and we look forward to answering any questions regarding any of these conditions.

Your nails grow at an average rate of 3 millimeters a month. Fingernails require 3 to 6 months to re-grow completely where as toenails can take from 12 to 18 months. Actual growth rate is dependent upon different factors including; age (as we age nail growth tends to slow), gender, season (expect increase growth in the warmer months), exercise level, diet (Diets high in B12 and Folic Acid increase nail growth) and Hereditary factors. Analyzing the recent growth record of nails can reveal the history of recent health and physiological imbalances, and has been used as a diagnostic tool since ancient times.

Major illness will cause a deep transverse groove to form across the nails. Discoloration, thinning, thickening, brittleness, splitting, grooves, small white spots, clubbing (convex), flatness, spooning (concave) can indicate illness in other areas of the body, nutrient deficiencies, drug reaction or poisoning, or local injury.

Some common Nail Conditions:

Paronychia is an inflammation of the matrix (surrounding tissue) of the nail with formation of pus and/or shedding of the nail. Paronychia results from the introduction of microscopic pathogens through small wounds.

Onychocryptosis; commonly known as "ingrown nails" most often affects the great toe but can occur to any of the toe/finger nails. In this condition, the nail cuts into one or both sides of the nail bed, resulting in inflammation and possibly associated infection (Paronychia). The relative infrequency of this condition in the fingers suggests that pressure from the ground or shoe against the toe is a prime factor. The movements involved in walking or other physical disturbances can also contribute to the problem.

Onychodystrophy is a deformation of the nails that can result from chemotherapy. It can include discoloration of the nail. Many times after chemotherapy has been completed the nails can return to the previous near normal condition or they can remain in this dystrophic state.

Onychogryposis, also called "ram's-horn nail", is a thickening and increase in curvature of the nail. It is usually the result of injury to the nail root. An affected nail has many grooves and ridges, is brownish in colour, and grows more quickly on one side than on the other. The thick curved nail is difficult to cut, and often remains untrimmed, increasing the problem.

Onychomycosis is a contagious infection of the nail caused by fungus. It can result in discoloration, thickening, chalkiness, or crumbling of the nails and is very difficult to treat.

Koilonychia is when the nail curves upwards (becomes spoon-shaped) due to an iron deficiency. The normal process of change is: brittle nails, straight nails, spoon-shaped nails.

Subungual hematoma occurs when an injury to the nail results in a collection of blood, or hematoma, under the nail. It may result from an acute injury or from repeated minor trauma such as running in undersized shoes.

Nail conditions can reflect your general health which is why you should have regular foot exams. The Chiropodist’s at Omni Foot Clinic can provide professional foot care leading to a healthier lifestyle. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Omni Foot Clinic & Orthotic Center
(905)592-1716
www.omnifoot.com