Your toenail is likely folding primarily due to improper footwear.
Here's a breakdown of why this happens and other contributing factors:
Common Causes of Toenail Folding
The most frequent cause of a folding toenail is external pressure, particularly from shoes. However, other factors can also contribute:
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Improper Footwear:
- Tight Shoes: Shoes that are too tight, especially in the toe box, compress the toes. This constant pressure can force the toenail to curl and fold over time.
- Narrow Toe Box: Similar to tight shoes, a shoe with a narrow toe box can squeeze the toes together, leading to toenail folding.
- High Heels: These force the toes into a cramped space at the front of the shoe, increasing the risk of folding.
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Trauma:
- Repetitive Trauma: Activities like running or hiking can cause repeated impact, leading to damage and eventual folding.
- Single Incident Trauma: Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it can damage the nail bed and matrix, potentially causing the nail to grow abnormally.
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Fungal Infections:
- Onychomycosis: A fungal infection can thicken and deform the toenail, making it more prone to folding or other structural issues.
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Aging:
- Changes in Nail Structure: As we age, our toenails can become thicker and more brittle, making them more susceptible to deformation, including folding.
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Underlying Medical Conditions:
- Psoriasis: This skin condition can affect the nails, causing pitting, thickening, and potential deformation.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow to the feet can affect nail health and growth, making them vulnerable to issues like folding.
What to Do About a Folding Toenail
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Proper Footwear:
- Choose Shoes with a Wide Toe Box: Ensure your toes have enough room to wiggle freely.
- Avoid Tight Shoes: Select shoes that fit comfortably and don't squeeze your toes.
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Foot Hygiene:
- Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry: This helps prevent fungal infections.
- Trim Toenails Properly: Cut your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
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Medical Evaluation:
- See a Podiatrist: If the folding is severe, painful, or accompanied by signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus), consult a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment. They can rule out underlying medical conditions and recommend appropriate solutions.
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Treat Fungal Infections:
- Antifungal Medications: If a fungal infection is present, your doctor may prescribe topical or oral antifungal medications.
Prevention
- Regularly inspect your feet and toenails.
- Wear clean socks and breathable shoes.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places to minimize the risk of fungal infections.
