Thickening of the Nail - aka Onychogryphosis | Studio Podiatry | Brisbane Podiatrist & Orthotics | Camp Hill & Toowong

Thickening of the Nail – aka Onychogryphosis

Thickening of the Nail - aka Onychogryphosis

What is it?

Onychogryphosis is simply a term to describe thickening of the toenail/s. With onychogryphosis the nail may resemble a “rams horn” as well as have a yellow/brown discolouration.

What are the symptoms?

  • Thickened nail
  • Possible yellow/brown discolouration (in some cases may resemble a fungal nail)
  • Difficulty cutting the nail 
  • Can be painful on downward pressure

Why did I get it?

  • Trauma – it can be very easy to damage the nail bed either from direct impact (e.g. dropping an object on the nail) or repetitive trauma/ pressure (e.g. tight fitting shoes) 
  • Can be secondary to a fungal infection of the nail
  • Vascular disease 
  • Poor foot care – not cutting toenails for a prolonged period of time

How is it diagnosed?

Undertaking a thorough history assessment and clinical examination is enough to assess for onychogryphosis. Sometimes a nail sample may be sent to rule out fungal infection. 

How can I treat it?

Your podiatrist can appropriately cut/ decrease the thickness of the affected toenail. If the damage to the nail is permanent, regular podiatric care is the best treatment in order to ensure adequate maintenance. It is also important to identify/ correct the causative factor. 

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