Thick toe nails?

Nearly every day, patients ask us about their toenails - concerned that they are too thick. Wearing sandals or flip-flops, or just walking around barefoot, can be a major embarrassment if you have thick, crumbly or yellow nails. Most attribute their nail changes to a fungal infection of the nail, called Onychomycosis. Though this is often the case, fungus is not the only cause of nail changes. Other reasons for thick toe nails include psoriasis, trauma, other infections, nutrition, or genetics.

There are many things that you can do to improve your thick nails.

1. Trimming thick nails can be challenging. You may need more than your standard nail clipper. It may also be helpful to soak your feet in warm water for 20 minutes to soften the nails before trying to cut them.

2. You can help desolve your thick nail by using 40 percent salicylic acid plaster. Cut this to the size and shape of the affected nail. Apply it with the plaster side against the nail, and cover with an adhesive bandage. Then keep the nail dry for 2 days, scrub with a tooth brush, and repeat as needed. Be careful not to allow the salicylic acid plaster to touch your skin, as it will cause an irritation.

3. Filing your nails can also be beneficial. There are lots of tools to help you with this task.

Of course, if you have diabetes, vascular insufficiency, arthritis or a neuropathy (where the sensation to the foot is diminished) you should seek out help from a podiatrist or physician.