Thickened nails, medically known as onychodystrophy, occur when toenails become abnormally thick, hard to trim, and sometimes painful. This condition can affect one or multiple nails and often results from underlying health issues or repeated trauma.
Thickened nails can be caused by fungal infections, psoriasis, eczema, injury to the nail, or circulation problems. Aging and certain medical conditions like diabetes can also contribute. Wearing tight shoes or stubbing toes repeatedly may worsen the thickness.
Signs include nails that appear raised, yellowed, brittle, or misshapen. The nails may become difficult to cut and may cause discomfort inside shoes. Your foot specialist will examine your nails and may order lab tests or nail clippings to determine the exact cause and guide treatment.
