May 2023

Treatment Options

1. Non-Medicated Treatments:

Non-medicated treatments for corns on toes or anywhere else include soaking the affected area in warm water. After that, use a pumice stone to gently file away dead skin, and apply moisturising creams to soften the corn. These methods can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with corns.

2. Medicated Treatments:

Medicated treatments for corns include over-the-counter corn pads or plasters that contain salicylic acid. These products help dissolve the hardened skin of the corn. It is important to follow the instructions carefully when using medicated treatments.

3. Professional Treatment:

In some cases, professional treatment may be necessary, especially for stubborn or recurring corns. A podiatrist or foot specialist can provide expert advice and perform procedures such as verruca or corn removal. They may also assess your foot structure and recommend orthotic devices or footwear modifications to prevent corns from recurring.

Statistics on Corns in the UK

• According to a study conducted by Public Health England, corns and calluses affect approximately 20% of the UK population.
• The same study revealed that corns and calluses were more prevalent in women compared to men.

Corns are a common foot problem in the UK, affecting a significant portion of the population. According to recent statistics, around 1 in 5 adults in the UK experience corns on their feet. This translates to millions of people dealing with the discomfort and pain caused by corns. Furthermore, statistics indicate that corns are more prevalent among certain age groups. Older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above, are more likely to develop corns due to factors such as reduced skin elasticity and changes in foot structure.

Another noteworthy statistic is the impact of footwear on corn development. Research suggests that ill-fitting shoes and high heels are major contributors to corn formation. In fact, studies show that women are more susceptible to corns compared to men, largely due to their footwear choices.

Why Choose Bucksfoot Clinic?

When it comes to corn treatment and foot care, Bucksfoot Clinic is a trusted name in the UK. With experienced podiatrists and high-quality care, they provide comprehensive treatment options for corns on toes and the rest of the foot. From accurate diagnosis to personalised treatment plans, Bucksfoot Clinic ensures that your feet receive the attention they deserve.

Conclusion

Remember, taking care of your feet is an investment in your overall well-being. Whether you are dealing with a corn on the toes or a verruca, seeking appropriate treatment is essential. Explore treatment options, and prioritise foot health for a comfortable and active lifestyle. With the right approach and guidance from a foot specialist, you can enjoy improved foot health and a pain-free lifestyle. Trust in the expertise of Bucksfoot Clinic to provide you with the highest standard of care for your corn treatment needs. Get expert insights now!

Types of Corns and Treatment Options FAQ

Q. What are the different types of corns?
A. Hard corns (firm, concentrated areas on toe tops), soft corns (whitish, rubbery between toes), seed corns (small, superficial on soles), and vascular/neurovascular corns (with blood vessels or nerves).

Q. What is a hard corn?
A. A thick, hardened area of skin with a dense core, typically found on the tops or sides of toes where bones create pressure against shoes.

Q. What is a soft corn?
A. A whitish, rubbery corn that develops between toes where moisture accumulates, caused by friction between adjacent toes, often very painful despite softer texture.

Q. What causes corns to form?
A. Repeated friction and pressure from ill-fitting shoes, high heels, abnormal foot mechanics, toe deformities like hammertoes, and walking patterns that create excessive pressure points.

Q. How are hard corns treated?
A. Professional debridement by a podiatrist, protective padding, proper footwear with adequate toe room, custom orthotics, and addressing underlying pressure causes.

Q. How do you treat soft corns between toes?
A. Keep area clean and dry, use toe separators or lamb’s wool, wear wider shoes, professional debridement, apply prescribed medications, and maintain proper foot hygiene.

Q. Can I remove corns at home?
A. You can gently file with pumice stone after soaking, but never cut or use sharp objects. Avoid corn removal pads with acids. See a podiatrist for safe professional treatment.

Q. What’s the difference between corns and calluses?
A. Corns are smaller, have a hard center core, and typically develop on toes. Calluses are larger, more diffuse, have no distinct center, and usually form on weight-bearing areas.

Q. Do corns have roots?
A. No. This is a myth. Corns don’t have roots but have a concentrated central core of hard skin that extends deeper into the tissue causing pain.

Q. When should I see a podiatrist for corns?
A. If corns are painful, infected, bleeding, recurring despite home care, or if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or other conditions affecting healing.

Q. Can proper footwear prevent corns?
A. Yes. Shoes with adequate width, cushioning, proper fit, low heels, and roomy toe boxes eliminate friction and pressure that cause corn development.

Q. Will corns come back after treatment?
A. They can if underlying causes like improper footwear, foot deformities, or pressure points aren’t addressed. Prevention requires ongoing proper footwear and foot care.

Toenail discomfort is a common issue that many people experience. If your toenail hurts when pressed, it can be an uncomfortable and sometimes painful experience. There are a number of reasons why your toenails may be sensitive, including ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and trauma. In this article, we’ll explore some solutions for discomfort when pressing on toenails and some info about nail sensitivity and soreness. Keep reading to learn more.

Nail Sensitivity & Sore Toenails

Nail sensitivity and sore toenails are common foot problems that many people experience at some point in their lives. Both of these conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, infection, or underlying health conditions. Understanding the causes and symptoms of nail sensitivity and sore toenails can help you identify the problem and find the right treatment.

Nail sensitivity is a condition in which the nails become more sensitive and painful to the touch. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, fungal infections, psoriasis, or other skin conditions. Some people may also experience nail sensitivity as a side effect of certain medications or treatments, such as chemotherapy.

Sore toenails, on the other hand, typically occur when the toenail becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as injury, fungal infections, or ingrown toenails. Sore toenails can be particularly painful and can make it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably.

Toenail discomfort can also be caused by other conditions, such as thick toenails, brittle nails, or discolored nails. These issues can be caused by underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or circulation problems, or may be a result of injury or aging.

In order to find relief from nail sensitivity, sore toenails, or other toenail discomfort, it is important to identify the underlying cause of the problem. For example, if the cause of the problem is a fungal infection, treatment with antifungal medications may be necessary. If the issue is caused by an ingrown toenail, soaking the foot in warm water and gently massaging the area may help to relieve pain and discomfort.

Solutions for Toenail Discomfort, Nail Sensitivity and Soreness

1. Soak Your Feet
Soaking your feet in warm water can help to ease the discomfort in your toenails. Fill a tub with warm water and add a cup of Epsom salt. Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes, then dry them thoroughly. The Epsom salt helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, while the warm water can help to increase blood flow to your toes, which can promote healing.

2. Apply Ice
If your toenails are sore, applying ice can help to reduce inflammation and numb the area. Wrap a bag of ice in a towel and apply it to your toes for 10-15 minutes at a time. Make sure to take breaks in between icing sessions to avoid damaging your skin.

3. Use Over-The-Counter Medications
There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help to relieve pain and inflammation in your toenails. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are both good options for reducing pain, while anti-inflammatory creams can help to reduce inflammation.

4. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wearing comfortable shoes can help to alleviate discomfort in your toenails. Look for shoes with a wide toe box and good arch support. Avoid shoes with narrow or pointed toes, as they can put pressure on your toenails and exacerbate the problem.

5. Trim Your Toenails Properly
Ingrown toenails can cause significant discomfort when pressed on. To prevent ingrown toenails, make sure to trim your toenails properly. Trim them straight across and avoid cutting them too short. If you have difficulty trimming your toenails, consider seeing a podiatrist for assistance.

6. Treat Fungal Infections
If your toenails are sensitive due to a fungal infection, it’s important to treat the infection as soon as possible. Over-the-counter antifungal creams can be effective for mild infections, but more severe cases may require prescription medication.

Seek Expert Advice and Assistance

If your toenails hurt when pressed or are constantly sore and uncomfortable, it’s important to seek medical attention. A podiatrist can help to identify the underlying cause of your toenail discomfort and provide treatment options. A podiatrist is a medical professional who specializes in the treatment of foot and ankle conditions, including nail sensitivity and sore toenails.
Depending on the severity of your condition, they may recommend a range of treatments, from conservative measures such as orthotics, padding, or topical creams to more invasive procedures such as toenail removal or surgery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, nail sensitivity and sore toenails are common foot problems that can be caused by a variety of factors. Identifying the underlying cause of the problem and finding the right treatment can help to relieve pain and discomfort and prevent further complications. If you are experiencing toenail discomfort, contact Bucksfoot. At Bucksfoot, we provide the best care for your foot conditions with the help of the most advanced treatments. Visit our website to learn more.

Toenail Discomfort FAQ

Q. Why does pressing on my toenail hurt?
A. Pain when pressing toenails can indicate ingrown toenails, fungal infections, trauma or bruising, nail bed inflammation, infection, tight footwear, or underlying health conditions.

Q. What are signs of an ingrown toenail?
A. Pain when pressing the nail edge, redness and swelling around the nail, tenderness to touch, pus or drainage indicating infection, and the nail growing into surrounding skin.

Q. Can fungal infections cause toenail pain?
A. Yes. Fungal infections thicken nails, create pressure, cause inflammation, and lead to pain when pressed. Symptoms include discoloration, brittleness, and distorted nail shape.

Q. What causes toenail trauma and bruising?
A. Stubbing toes, dropping objects on feet, repetitive pressure from athletic activities, tight shoes causing nail bed damage, and accumulated blood under the nail (subungual hematoma).

Q. How can I relieve toenail pressure pain at home?
A. Soak feet in warm water with Epsom salt, wear properly fitted shoes with adequate toe room, keep nails trimmed straight across, apply ice for swelling, and elevate feet.

Q. When should I see a podiatrist for toenail pain?
A. If pain persists beyond a few days, there’s visible infection (pus, red streaks), severe swelling, difficulty walking, nail discoloration, or if you have diabetes or circulation problems.

Q. Can tight shoes cause toenail discomfort?
A. Yes. Shoes that are too tight or narrow compress toenails, create pressure, cause bruising, lead to ingrown nails, and result in chronic pain and deformity over time.

Q. What treatments are available for painful toenails?
A. Depends on the cause: ingrown nail removal, antifungal medications, draining blood from bruised nails, antibiotics for infections, proper footwear guidance, and in severe cases, nail removal.

Q. How do I prevent toenail pain?
A. Trim nails straight across and not too short, wear properly fitted shoes with adequate toe room, protect feet during activities, maintain good foot hygiene, and address problems early.

Q. Can diabetes affect toenail health?
A. Yes. Diabetes reduces sensation and circulation, increases infection risk, slows healing, and makes toenail problems more serious. Diabetics should have regular professional foot care.

Q. Is it normal for toenails to hurt after exercise?
A. Some pressure is normal, but persistent pain indicates problems like shoes being too small, improper fit, repetitive trauma, or developing conditions requiring proper footwear or medical attention.

Ingrown toenails are a very common foot condition that plague the masses. But do you have a toenail that is painful to the touch or is causing you discomfort, but it isn’t ingrown? If so, you are not alone. Many people experience this type of pain, and it can be frustrating trying to figure out what is causing it. There are several potential reasons for this type of pain, and understanding them can help you address the issue.

Toenails can be a source of pain for many different reasons, including fungal infections, trauma, and other medical conditions. When the pain is localized to the side of the nail and not the nail itself, it is often referred to as “paronychia,” which is an infection or inflammation of the skin that surrounds the nail. In this article, we’ll learn about these various causes of toenail pain and pain relief methods. Keep reading to learn more.

What are the various causes of Toenail Pain?

Toenail pain can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Ingrown toenail: An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail penetrates the adjacent soft tissue, leading to discomfort, inflammation, and redness. Poor nail trimming technique, tight footwear, or foot injury are common factors contributing to the development of ingrown toenails.

2. Trauma: Dropping a heavy object on your toe, stubbing your toe, or other forms of trauma can cause pain in the toenail.

3. Fungal infections: Fungal infections can cause toenail pain, especially if left untreated. The presence of the infection can lead to the thickening, discoloration, and brittleness of the toenail.

4. Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections can also cause toenail pain, often accompanied by swelling, redness, and discharge.

5. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can cause thick, discolored patches on the skin, including the toenails. In severe cases, psoriasis can cause toenail pain and damage.

6. Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes joint inflammation and pain. It can affect the joints in the toes and cause toenail pain.

7. Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It can cause sudden, severe pain in the toes and toenails.

8. Neuroma: A neuroma is a benign growth of nerve tissue that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the toes and toenails.

9. Tight-fitting shoes: Shoes that are too tight or narrow can cause toenail pain, especially if worn for extended periods of time.

10. Foot deformities: Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet can cause toenail pain and discomfort.

What can I do Toenail pain relief?

So, what can you do if you are experiencing pain on the side of your toenail? Below are some suggestions to relieve the discomfort.:

1. Soak your foot in warm water: Soaking your foot in warm water for 15-20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and ease pain. You can also add Epsom salts or essential oils to the water to further enhance the benefits.

2. Keep the affected area clean and dry: Keeping the affected area clean and dry can help prevent infection and promote healing. Be sure to dry your feet thoroughly after bathing or swimming, and avoid wearing tight or restrictive footwear.

3. Apply an anti-fungal cream: If your pain is caused by a fungal infection, an antifungal cream may help alleviate your symptoms. These creams can be purchased over-the-counter at most drug stores.

4. Use over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Make sure to adhere to the  dosage instructions provided on the package.

5. Seek medical attention: If your pain persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or swelling, it is important to seek medical attention. Your physician can assist in identifying the root cause of your discomfort and suggesting suitable remedies.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate pain on the side of the toenail. This may involve removing part of the nail or the surrounding tissue to alleviate pressure and promote healing.

Who can help with my Toenail problems?

A podiatrist, also known as a foot doctor, can help with toenail problems. Podiatrists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet, including toenail problems such as ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and other issues. They can provide a variety of treatments, including medications, surgical procedures, and advice on proper foot care. If you are experiencing toenail problems, it’s a good idea to consult with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pain on the side of the toenail can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. However, understanding the potential causes of this pain and taking steps to address it can help alleviate your symptoms and promote healing. Finally, if you wish to receive the finest treatment for your toenail problems, call Bucksfoot. Visit our website to learn more.

Toenail Side Pain FAQ

Q. Why does the side of my toenail hurt if it’s not ingrown?
A. Pain can result from paronychia (nail fold infection), trauma or bruising, tight footwear pressure, nail bed inflammation, fungal infections, or underlying bone or joint issues.

Q. What is paronychia?
A. An infection of the skin around the nail (nail fold) causing redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes pus, often resulting from bacteria entering through small cuts or hangnails.

Q. Can tight shoes cause toenail side pain?
A. Yes. Shoes that are too narrow or tight compress the nail edges against surrounding tissue, causing inflammation, bruising, and persistent pain without actual nail ingrowth.

Q. How does trauma cause toenail side pain?
A. Stubbing toes, dropping objects, or repetitive pressure from running damages tissue around the nail, causes bruising and inflammation, leading to tenderness and pain.

Q. What are the symptoms of nail fold infection?
A. Redness and warmth around the nail, swelling and tenderness, throbbing pain, pus or drainage, and increased discomfort when touching or pressing the affected area.

Q. How can I treat toenail side pain at home?
A. Soak feet in warm water with Epsom salt several times daily, wear roomy comfortable shoes, apply antibiotic ointment if there’s minor infection, keep area clean and dry, and avoid tight socks.

Q. When should I see a podiatrist for this pain?
A. If pain worsens or persists beyond a few days, there are signs of infection, swelling increases, you have diabetes or poor circulation, or home treatment doesn’t provide relief.

Q. Can fungal infections cause pain on the nail side?
A. Yes. Fungal infections can cause nail thickening, inflammation of surrounding tissue, pressure on nail folds, and pain even without visible ingrowth into the skin.

Q. What professional treatments are available?
A. Antibiotics for bacterial infections, antifungal medications, proper nail trimming technique, draining abscesses if present, addressing footwear issues, and treating underlying conditions.

Q. How can I prevent toenail side pain?
A. Wear properly fitted shoes with adequate width, trim nails straight across, avoid cutting too short or rounding corners, protect toes from injury, maintain good hygiene, and moisturize carefully.

Q. Could the pain indicate a more serious condition?
A. Sometimes. Persistent unexplained pain could indicate gout, arthritis, bone issues, circulatory problems, or other conditions requiring medical evaluation and proper diagnosis.