Nail Disorders

Nail problems are commonly caused by improper trimming, minor injuries, or repeated trauma. Some nail disorders can also be congenital. Painful ingrown nails may be congenital, caused by an over curvature of the nail, or an imbalance between the width of the nail plate and the nail bed. Toe injuries that change the nail’s contour also can lead to an ingrown toenail. Toe deformities (such as a bunion that forces the big toe to lean toward the second toe), high–heeled or narrow, pointed shoes can put pressure between the nail and soft tissues, eventually forcing the nail to grow into the skin. 

What are the symptoms of nail disorders?

Redness, swelling, and infection make the toe very painful. Ingrown nails can be accompanied by other toe disorders, such as excess surrounding tissue or an outgrowth of bone beneath the nail.

What are the treatments for nail disorders?

Nail problems that are severe or chronic may require removal of all or a portion of the nail. These procedures are performed very comfortably under local anesthesia and require less than one hour.  

What is the removal of bone growth?

Bone directly beneath the nail plate may become enlarged, developing a spur or outgrowth that can deform the nail plate or lead to an ingrown nail. Removal of excess bone may be performed concurrently with surgery to partially or permanently remove the nail plate.  After surgery to permanently remove the nail plate, the body generates a hardened skin covering over the sensitive nail bed. When this covering has developed, normal activities can be resumed. Women can also use nail polish in this area. Partial growth of the nail plate after permanent removal is rare but possible. Because the nail matrix has been destroyed, the nail should not grow again