Distorted Damaged & Fungal Toe Nails

Fungal infection

Fungal spores exist everywhere in the enviroment, so everyone is exposed to them at some time or other. They are very easily picked up in communal changing rooms. This is why Athletes foot is the common name for fungal infections.

They grow best in warm moist dark conditions, so the inside of a shoe is ideal.

Nail infection developes from Athletes foot as the fungus spreads to the nail.

Damaged nail roots

The nail root can be injured in many ways, from a sudden trauma such as stubbing your toe or dropping something on it, to repeated minor trauma such as wearing close fitting shoes over a long period.

If the injury is not severe, intime a new nail will grow out normally, but if the root is damaged it does not repair. So the nail plate growing out of the damaged root is deformed and may not remain attached.

Treatment

Before embarking on treatment it is often wise to confirm the presence of fungus as damaged nails can look similar.

They can be ground down to a reasonable appearance and kept that way with occasional treatment.

If fungus is present anti fungal lotion will need to be applied for a long period. In extreme cases oral anti-fungals may be necessary.

Where the damage is permanent. Cosmetic resin can be used to remodel the nail giving it the appearance of normality. It is very effective and can be maintained with occasional review.