The Most Common Foot Nail Problems and How DG Podiatrist Can Help
Foot nail problems are incredibly common — and yet many people put off getting them looked at, either because they assume the issue will sort itself out, or because they feel embarrassed. The truth is, nail problems rarely go away on their own and can get significantly worse without the right treatment.
At DG Podiatrist in London, we see and treat nail-related foot conditions every day. In this blog, we’re covering the most common foot nail problems, what causes them, and how professional podiatric care can help you get back to comfortable, confident feet.
1. Ingrown Toenails
What Is It?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin rather than over it. The big toe is most commonly affected, though it can happen on any toe.
Symptoms
• Pain and tenderness along the side of the nail
• Redness and swelling
• Skin that feels warm to the touch
• In more severe cases: infection, discharge, or difficulty walking
What Causes It?
Ingrown toenails are typically caused by cutting nails too short or at a curved angle, wearing shoes that are too tight, or trauma to the toe. Some people are also genetically predisposed to curved nail growth.
How DG Podiatrist Can Help
Mild ingrown toenails can often be treated conservatively — lifting the nail edge, removing the offending spike of nail, and providing aftercare advice. For persistent or recurrent cases, a minor procedure called a Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) may be recommended, where a small section of the nail is removed under local anaesthetic. This is a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution.
2. Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis)
What Is It?
Fungal nail infections are caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. They are more common than many people realise and can affect one or several toenails.
Symptoms
• Nails that appear yellow, brown, or white
• Thickened or crumbly nails
• Nails that separate from the nail bed
• A mild odour
What Causes It?
Walking barefoot in public areas (such as swimming pools or gyms), wearing occlusive footwear for long periods, and a compromised immune system can all increase the risk.
How DG Podiatrist Can Help
Treatment options include topical antifungal lacquers and solutions, oral antifungal medication (where appropriate), for fungal nails. Your podiatrist will assess the severity of the infection and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.
3. Thickened Toenails (Onychauxis)
What Is It?
Thickened toenails are a common foot nail problem, particularly in older adults. The nail becomes abnormally thick, making it difficult and sometimes painful to cut.
What Causes It?
Causes include repeated trauma (such as from ill-fitting shoes), fungal infection, psoriasis, and age-related changes to the nail matrix.
How DG Podiatrist Can Help
A podiatrist can safely reduce and thin the nail using specialist equipment. Regular podiatry appointments to manage thickened nails can prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of complications, particularly for people with diabetes or poor circulation.
4. Nail Trauma
What Is It?
Trauma to a toenail — such as dropping something on your foot or repeated pressure from running — can cause bruising under the nail, nail loss, or damage to the nail bed.
Symptoms
• Discolouration (black or purple under the nail)
• Pain and swelling
• Nail loosening or falling off
How DG Podiatrist Can Help
Your podiatrist can assess the extent of the damage and provide appropriate treatment, whether that’s draining blood pooled under the nail to relieve pressure, protecting the nail bed, or advising on nail regrowth and care.
5. Psoriatic Nail Changes
What Is It?
Psoriasis doesn’t just affect the skin — it can also cause changes to the toenails. Nail psoriasis can look similar to a fungal infection and is sometimes mistaken for one.
Symptoms
• Pitting (small dents) on the nail surface
• Discolouration
• Separation of the nail from the nail bed
• Thickening or crumbling of the nail
How DG Podiatrist Can Help
A podiatrist can help distinguish nail psoriasis from fungal infection and provide appropriate nail care and management. They will also liaise with your GP or dermatologist if systemic treatment is needed.
6. Discoloured Toenails
What Is It?
Thickened toenails are a common foot nail problem, particularly in older adults. The nail becomes abnormally thick, making it difficult and sometimes painful to cut.
What Causes It?
Causes include repeated trauma (such as from ill-fitting shoes), fungal infection, psoriasis, and age-related changes to the nail matrix.
How DG Podiatrist Can Help
A podiatrist can safely reduce and thin the nail using specialist equipment. Regular podiatry appointments to manage thickened nails can prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of complications, particularly for people with diabetes or poor circulation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a sports podiatrist and how are they different from a regular podiatrist?
A sports podiatrist has specialist training in sports-related injuries and the biomechanical demands of physical activity. While a general podiatrist covers a broad range of foot conditions, a sports podiatrist focuses specifically on active individuals and athletic performance.
2. Do I need to be a professional athlete to see a sports podiatrist?
Absolutely not. Sports podiatrists work with people of all fitness levels — from casual joggers to competitive athletes. If you’re physically active and experiencing foot or lower limb issues, a sports podiatrist can help.
3. How does gait analysis work?
Gait analysis involves observing how you move — usually while walking or running on a treadmill. Your podiatrist looks at your foot strike, knee alignment, hip movement, and overall posture. Video analysis tools are often used to examine your mechanics in detail.
4. Can a sports podiatrist help with knee pain?
Yes, in many cases. Knee pain during running can stem from poor foot mechanics, such as overpronation. A sports podiatrist can assess whether your foot function is contributing to your knee issues and address it with orthotics, exercises, or footwear changes.
5. How long does it take to recover from a running injury with podiatric support?
Recovery time varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. Your sports podiatrist will give you a realistic timeline and guide you through each stage of recovery, including when it’s safe to return to training.
6. Are custom orthotics worth it for runners?
For many runners, yes. Custom orthotics are made specifically for your foot structure and gait. They can correct alignment, reduce pain, and help prevent recurring injuries. Off-the-shelf insoles may help in mild cases, but a custom pair is usually more effective for persistent or complex issues.
7. How often should a runner see a sports podiatrist?
This depends on your situation. If you’re injured, more frequent appointments may be needed initially. Once you’re healthy and training well, an annual check or pre-race assessment can be a useful part of your routine.
8. Can sports podiatry help with plantar fasciitis?
Yes. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common running injuries and one that responds well to podiatric treatment. A sports podiatrist can identify the underlying cause, provide hands-on treatment, and recommend stretching, orthotics, or load management strategies.
9. Should I bring my running shoes to my appointment?
Yes — always bring your current running shoes. Wear patterns on the sole can reveal a great deal about your gait and biomechanics. Your podiatrist will likely examine them as part of the assessment.
10. Does DG Podiatrist in London offer sports podiatry for children and young athletes?
Yes. We support young athletes and active children experiencing foot or lower limb pain. Early assessment and intervention can help prevent injuries from becoming long-term problems during key development years.
Ready to put your best foot foward?
Visit our bookings page or simply click below to book an appointment with DG Podiatrist today. Alternatively email us at bookings@dgpodiatrist.com.