
Other causes of thick toenails include aging and underlying conditions like psoriasis and diabetes.This is often seen in athletes, but it can also be the result of wearing improperly-fitting shoes. Thickening of the nail can also be caused by repeated injury to the toenail.X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMīoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. Thick toenails are most commonly caused by a fungal infection known as onychomycosis. The basic principle is based on the same physical laws as that of a leaf spring, namely using pressure and counter pressure.

In older children they can be seen after a high fever or uncommonly, can be a sign of zinc deficiency. In infants, these lines are commonly seen after birth.

These appear as indentations that run across the nails. Your doctor will likely ask you questions about your lifestyle and other health problems you may have, and may take a sample to send to a lab for testing to see if you have a fungal infection. Here are a few of the most commonly seen disorders: 1. When you’re finished, dry your feet completely, including between your toes. Before you attempt to cut your thick toenails, you should soften them by soaking them in warm water for at least 10 minutes. If you notice your nails becoming thick or changing color, visit your doctor. Soak your feet for 10 minutes in warm water then dry thoroughly. The cause of thick toenails can be difficult to determine just by looking at your feet. Visit your doctor to determine the cause. This article has been viewed 252,128 times. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Cunha is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association, the New York Podiatric Medical Association, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, and is board certified in Podiatric Medicine. A glass nail file is inexpensive and the best investment you can make in restoring your fragile nails. It does this by sealing the keratin layers at the edge of the nail together, preventing peeling and chipping. Cunha received his DPM from the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency as the Chief Resident at the Washington Hospital Center and Georgetown University where he specialized in lower extremity trauma, diabetic limb salvage, and reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle. Because a glass nail file smooths and seals the freshly filed edges, reduces the nails susceptibility to splits and breakages. Cunha is a foot and ankle surgeon with experience treating a wide array of foot and ankle conditions from minor problems to complex reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Miguel Cunha is the founder of Gotham Footcare and is a podiatrist based in Manhattan, New York. As you age, you may develop vertical ridges, or your nails may be a bit more brittle.

This article was co-authored by Miguel Cunha, DPM and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger. Normal, healthy nails appear smooth and have consistent coloring.
