Toenail Problems

Toenail fungus causes thickened, brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails. Fungus grows well in areas that are warm and damp.  It is very common for fungus to develop around the toes, especially when left in a moist environment like a shoe. If toenail fungus is not treated, the infection could spread to other toenails, skin, or even your fingernails.

Among the most common foot problems podiatrists encounter are ingrown toenails, which develop when a toenail grows into its surrounding skin, most often the big toe. Thickened nails can result from an injury to the toe nail  bed, (like dropping a heavy object on the toe) or from fungal infections.

A subungual hematoma is a condition in which there is bleeding under the fingernail or toenail. Hematomas are most often caused by a crush injury and can cause intense pain and throbbing as blood collects under the nail.