Description:

Nail trauma refers to injury or damage to the nail plate, nail bed, or surrounding structures caused by external forces such as tight shoes, high impact activities or accidents. This can lead to pain, discolouration, thickening, deformity, or even nail loss. Depending on the severity, nail trauma may also affect the nail’s ability to regrow normally.

Timely assessment and treatment are essential to manage symptoms, minimise complications, and support healthy nail regrowth.

Causes of Nail Trauma:

• Acute Injury:
  • Dropping a heavy object on the toe or finger.
  • Stubbing the toe against hard surfaces.
  • Crushing injuries caused by doors or machinery.
• Repetitive Microtrauma:
  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes or high heels.
  • Repeated impact from running, hiking, or other high-impact activities.
• Sports-Related Injuries:
  • Toe trauma from stopping abruptly in sports like football or tennis.
  • Damage from improperly fitting sports footwear.
• Chemical or Mechanical Trauma:
  • Excessive filing, buffing, or aggressive manicures.
  • Prolonged use of nail enhancements or harsh chemicals.
• Underlying Conditions Leading to Vulnerability:
  • Brittle nails caused by medical conditions/treatments that crack under minor pressure.
  • Fungal nail infections making nails weaker and more prone to trauma.

Symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness around the nail area.
• Discolouration, such as bruising (subungual haematoma).
• Nail thickening, ridging, or splitting.
• Detachment or loss of the nail (onycholysis).
• Swelling or redness in the surrounding skin.

Risks if left untreated:

• Infection: Bacterial or fungal infections can develop if the nail or nail bed is exposed.
• Permanent Deformity: Untreated injuries can lead to abnormal nail regrowth.
• Chronic Pain or Swelling: Prolonged discomfort affecting daily activities.
• Underlying Damage: Severe trauma can affect the nail matrix, leading to recurring issues.

What Appointment to Book:

• New Patients: Initial Consultation.
• Returning Patients: Advanced Therapies or Nail Care Follow-Up.

Effective Treatments We Offer:

• Subungual Haematoma Drainage: Relieves pressure and pain caused by blood accumulation under the nail.
• Debridement: Removal of damaged or thickened nail sections to promote healing.
• Protective Dressings: Shields the injured nail and surrounding skin during recovery.
• Nail Reconstruction: For aesthetic restoration and protection while the natural nail regrows.
• Nail Surgery: Minor operative procedure that can help to “reset” the nail or remove parts of the nail that are damaged and/or causing pain.
• Infection Management: Treatment of secondary bacterial or fungal infections with topical or oral medications.
• Footwear Advice: Recommendations for trauma-reducing footwear and activity modifications.
• Orthotics or Insoles: To redistribute pressure and prevent repetitive injuries in active individuals.