Onychogryphosis or ‘Ram’s Horn’, is a nail condition that is formed by slow growth of the nail plate or when one part of the toenail grows at a faster pace that the other. It is identified by thick or curvy yellowish colour on the toenails, most frequently the big toenail.

Curving nails

• Infection
• Ingrown toenails
• Pain
• Thickness of the nail
• Yellow or brown colouring of the nail

Causes of Onychogryphosis
Onychogryphosis can be a hereditary condition that occurs within the first few years of development. But it is generally most common is the elderly, due to poor health or neglectful personal care. The exact cause is not known but some common causes or associations are:

• Bunions
• Diabetes
• Fungal infection
• Incorrect footwear
• Skin conditions e.g. psoriasis or syphilis
• Trauma to the toenail or nail matrix

Treatment
There is no cure for onychogryphosis due to it mainly being a hereditary condition. Surgery can be performed to remove the affected nail but it may continue to grow back based on the severity and cause of it . The podiatrist can also perform regular trimming and reduce the thickness of the nail. Some ways to manage your onychogryphosis are:

• Cotton socks
• Correct footwear
• Regular changing of socks
• Visiting a podiatrist regularly for nail care

At Mint Foot Care Podiatry, we are more than happy to help and we will perform an extensive consultation on your feet to accurately determine the best treatment options for you. Please call 1300 975 980 to book an appointment.