Experiencing pain on the side of your toenail can be both perplexing and frustrating, especially when there’s no clear sign of an ingrown nail. This discomfort may make you wonder about the underlying causes, as it affects your daily activities and overall foot health.
When the side of the toenail hurts but isn’t ingrown, it could be due to conditions like involuted nails that curl into the skin, excessive skin buildup or even the presence of corn lodged in the nail’s sulcus. These issues can create discomfort without the typical signs of an ingrown toenail infection.
If you’re dealing with this issue, it’s important to understand that several conditions other than ingrown toenails can cause similar symptoms. Explore the potential causes and learn how to alleviate this discomfort.
Side of Toenail Hurts But Isn’t Ingrown – A Quick Guide
If you’re feeling pain on the side of your toenail but don’t see any signs of it being ingrown, you might be facing other less obvious issues. Conditions like involuted nails, which curl into the skin, can cause significant discomfort without the infection typical of ingrown toenails. Additionally, a buildup of skin beside the nail or corn in the sulcus can exert pressure on the nail, leading to pain. Understanding these possibilities is key to addressing the root cause and finding relief without jumping to conclusions about ingrown toenails.
Experience Comprehensive Foot Care at Lidcombe Podiatry
Don’t let toenail pain disrupt your daily life! At Lidcombe Podiatry, we offer specialised services designed to address the root cause of your discomfort and restore the health and beauty of your feet. Whether it’s involuted nails, fungal infections or simply the need for professional care, our expert team is here to help.
Embrace the confidence that comes with healthy, well-cared-for feet. Take the first step towards comfort and recovery by scheduling an appointment today. For personalised care, call us at (02) 8745 6297 or visit our Contact Us page to book your consultation. Let us help you put your best foot forward!
10 Causes of Toenail Pain
Toenail pain can arise from a variety of sources, many of which might not be immediately apparent. Here are some common yet frequently overlooked causes of toenail pain.
Trauma or Injury
Experiencing a direct hit to your toenail or enduring repetitive stress from activities like running can lead to significant toenail pain. This discomfort is often exacerbated by improperly fitting shoes, which press uncomfortably against the nails and consequently cause pain even in the absence of a distinct injury.
It’s crucial to wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate room for your toes to move freely. Additionally, athletes or individuals engaged in regular physical activity should consider footwear specifically designed to cushion and protect the toenails and toes, minimising the risk of trauma. Paying attention to the design and the material of the shoe can also prevent undue pressure that leads to toenail damage over time.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are a prevalent cause of toenail discomfort, characterised by thickened nails, a colour change and pain surrounding the nail area. These infections thrive in warm, moist environments and make your shoes a common breeding ground.
Addressing fungal infections promptly with appropriate antifungal medications – either topical or oral – can prevent the pain from worsening and restore the health of your toenails. Regularly changing socks and choosing breathable footwear can also help keep the feet dry and less susceptible to fungal growth.
Psoriasis of the Nail
Psoriasis can also affect toenails, leading to pitting, abnormal growth and pain. This autoimmune condition causes excessive skin cell production, which can significantly alter the appearance and feel of toenails. Symptoms may include thickening of the nail, discolouration and detachment from the nail bed.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and can significantly reduce discomfort through the use of topical treatments, light therapy or systemic medications prescribed by healthcare professionals. Regular consultations with a dermatologist can also help manage the condition effectively and mitigate its impact on toenail health and comfort.
Involuted (or Curled Nails in the Sides)
Involuted nails, which curl into the skin without piercing it, can create significant pain. This condition often results from genetic factors or improper nail trimming.
To manage involuted nails, engage in careful trimming that avoids cutting the nails too short or rounding the corners excessively, which can exacerbate the curling. In some cases, professional podiatric care may be necessary to reshape the nail’s growth pattern through specialised trimming techniques or corrective devices that gradually alter the nail’s shape.
Excessive Footwear Pressure
Tight or poorly fitting shoes can compress your toenails and lead to pain, even without direct trauma. Consider choosing footwear that offers enough space and support, especially if you stand or walk for extended periods. Ensuring that shoes have a wide enough toe box and sufficient cushioning can also prevent unnecessary toenail compression.
For those with particularly sensitive feet, custom orthotics may be recommended to provide additional support and distribute pressure more evenly across the foot, thereby minimising stress on the toenails.
Buildup of Skin Down the Side of the Nail
Sometimes, skin buildup beside the nail can mimic the symptoms of an ingrown toenail and cause pressure and discomfort. Managing this buildup involves regular exfoliation and moisturising to keep the skin soft and prevent it from hardening around the nail.
Soaking the feet in warm water and using a pumice stone or foot file can gently remove excess skin without causing damage. You can also apply a moisturiser specifically designed for feet to maintain skin elasticity and prevent buildup. If the condition persists or worsens, consulting a podiatrist might be necessary to remove excess skin professionally and advise on preventative care techniques.
Corn in the Sulcus
A corn developing in the sulcus, the groove at the side of the toenail, can exert significant pressure on the nail, leading to pain. Corns in this area often develop due to constant friction or pressure from tight shoes, which forces the skin to harden and thicken as a protective response.
To effectively manage and treat corns, softening the hardened skin with moisturising creams or pads specifically designed for corns can be beneficial. Additionally, you can use padding or cushions to redistribute pressure away from the corn can provide immediate relief. For persistent or very painful corns, it may be advisable to consult a podiatrist who can safely remove the corn and suggest footwear that prevents recurrence.
Chemical Irritants
Exposure to chemical irritants found in nail polish or removers can lead to toenail pain and sensitivity. These chemicals can strip natural oils from the nail, making them brittle and more susceptible to damage.
Switching to hypoallergenic or less harsh products can often mitigate this issue. Additionally, allowing the nails to ‘breathe’ by taking breaks between polish applications can help maintain nail health.
It is also beneficial to use nail products that are free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene and dibutyl phthalate, which are often implicated in causing nail damage and discomfort. For individuals with particularly sensitive skin, wearing protective gloves when using nail polish remover can help minimise direct exposure to these irritants.
Arthritis in the Toe Joint
Arthritis affecting the toe joint can lead to pain that extends into the toenail. This can cause swelling and changes in the joint structure, which in turn can exert abnormal pressure on the toenail.
Managing arthritis effectively involves a combination of medication, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and physical therapy exercises that help maintain joint mobility and reduce discomfort. In some cases, orthotic devices designed to correct joint alignment can also relieve pressure on the toenail and alleviate pain. Regular consultations with a healthcare provider are crucial to monitor the progression of arthritis and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
Allergic Reaction to Nail Care Products
Allergic reactions to nail care products, such as certain types of nail polish or hardeners, can cause inflammation and pain around the toenails. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include redness, itching, swelling and discomfort around the nail area.
Identifying and avoiding allergenic products is crucial in preventing this type of pain. Consider conducting a patch test with new products to determine if an allergic reaction will occur. If an allergic reaction is suspected, it is important to stop using the offending product immediately and wash the area with soap and water to remove any residues.
For ongoing symptoms, a dermatologist can provide treatments to soothe the inflammation and recommend alternative nail care products that are free from common allergens.
Things to Do for Toenail Pain Relief
From proper footwear to simple home treatments, exploring your options to alleviate toenail pain can lead to substantial relief and help maintain the health of your feet.
Adjust Your Footwear
Wearing shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support is crucial in alleviating pressure on your toenails. Opt for footwear with a wide toe box and appropriate cushioning to prevent unnecessary toe pain. Shoes that are too tight can exacerbate existing conditions and even cause new issues, such as corns or involuted nails.
Furthermore, choose shoes with good arch support, as this can help distribute body weight more evenly, reducing the stress on any single part of the foot, including the toenails. For those with particularly sensitive feet or existing foot problems, custom orthotic inserts prescribed by a podiatrist may be necessary to provide the best support and relief.
Proper Toenail Trimming
Why should you cut your nails straight across and avoid trimming too close to the skin? This simple practice can prevent many cases of toenail pain related to nail structure issues, such as ingrown toenails or nails that are too short, which can expose sensitive skin to irritation and infection. Additionally, using the right tools, like a clean, sharp nail clipper or scissors, ensures a clean cut without fraying the nail, which can also lead to discomfort.
Soaking and Hygiene
Regular foot soaks can help reduce pain and prevent infections. Soaking your feet in warm water mixed with salt (regular table salt) can help clean and soften the skin and nails, making it easier to trim nails and remove built-up debris. This also soothes sore feet and reduces inflammation.
After soaking, thoroughly dry your feet to prevent moisture from creating a breeding ground for fungi.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
For immediate relief, over-the-counter pain relievers and topical ointments can be effective. Products containing ingredients like lidocaine or ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation directly at the source. These medications are available in various forms, including creams, gels and sprays, allowing for targeted application. Always follow the recommended dosages and consider consulting a healthcare provider if over-the-counter options do not provide sufficient relief or if the pain persists.
Home Remedies
Home remedies, such as the application of tea tree oil or soaking in a warm salt water bath, can provide significant relief from toenail pain. These natural approaches are gentle and can be very effective in managing mild to moderate pain. However, make sure to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation, and test any new remedy on a small area of skin first to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
When to See a Podiatrist
Understanding when to escalate your concerns to a healthcare professional can prevent complications and lead to quicker, more effective treatment. Here are some signs that indicate a more serious condition that needs a professional:
Signs of Infection
If you notice redness, swelling or pus around your toenail, it might indicate an infection that requires professional help. These symptoms should not be ignored, as they can lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Infections can rapidly worsen, potentially spreading to other parts of the body or leading to more serious health issues.
In addition, if you experience increased warmth around the affected area, fever or severe pain, these are urgent signs that professional care is needed immediately.
Persistent or Worsening Pain
Chronic or escalating pain could indicate an underlying condition that needs professional intervention. Pain that does not improve with standard care techniques could be a sign of bone infection, severe fungal infections or other serious disorders that may require more aggressive treatments, such as prescription medication, specialised therapies or even surgery.
Changes in Nail Colour or Structure
Significant changes in your toenail’s colour or structure, such as thickening or discolouration, can signal deeper health issues that require professional diagnosis and treatment. Discolouration and thickening of the nail could be signs of fungal infections, psoriasis or even melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Early detection and treatment of these conditions are crucial for effective management and can prevent potential complications.
Failure of Home Treatments
If home remedies and over-the-counter treatments fail to provide relief after a reasonable period, professional advice is necessary, as they can more effectively address the root cause of your toenail pain. Sometimes, issues like severe ingrown toenails or deep fungal infections require professional treatment techniques, such as surgical removal of the nail or prescription-strength antifungals.
Key Takeaways
Toenail pain that does not stem from an ingrown nail can arise from a variety of other conditions. Recognising the signs of these different issues, from involuted nails to fungal infections or pressure from ill-fitting shoes, is crucial. By identifying the true cause of your discomfort, you can pursue the most effective treatment and prevent further complications.
Bear in mind that if home remedies do not alleviate the pain or if you notice signs of infection, you need to consult a professional. Taking the right steps towards understanding and treating your toenail pain ensures healthier feet and a more comfortable daily life.
