Our last foot care blog post from our Oakville foot clinic addressed the topic of thick toenails. More specifically it addressed fungal toenails as a cause of thickened toenails. It went on to address how a Chiropodist (foot care specialist) can assist you in the assessment and treatment of your feet.

Another culprit leading to thickened toenails is called Nail Psoriasis.

What is Nail Psoriasis?

Many people have heard the term Psoriasis. Psoriasis is a common skin condition. It can also affect the nails. Nail psoriasis leads to thickened nails and toenails. There may also be areas of pitting, ridging and / or abnormal contour.

The toenails may be discoloured, have ridges or grooves and be thickened. The toenails may also lift or separate from the nailbed.

It is often the case that nail psoriasis occurs with psoriasis of the skin. It presents in the skin with patches of redness and crusty flaky skin covered with scales. Typical locations for skin psoriasis include the elbows, knees, scalp and trunk.

There are people who also have psoriatic arthritis. This is an issue diagnosed with a rheumatologist. It tends to affect the sacroilliac joint, the toes and other structures of the body including the tendons. Your Physiotherapist is a helpful ally in the treatment of body aches, pains, and injuries related to psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriasis is thought to be caused by a problem with the immune system.

Treatment for Nail Psoriasis

Your family physician or dermatologist, or rheumatologist may prescribe medications for your psoriasis in general.

Nail creams may be prescribed by your Chiropodist. They would be rubbed into and around the nail. These may be corticosteroid cream, vitamin D or antimetabolites.

In more serious cases corticosteroid injections may be provided under the nail.

Unlike fungal toenails, thick toenails from psoriasis is not contagious. If you are concerned that you may her a fungal toenail infection or nail psoriasis, our North Oakville Chiropodists are happy to consult with you during an individualized assessment, and help provide you with treatment options.

Contact us to book an appointment. (905) 582 9700