Pincer Nail Deformity Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Correction, Treatment

The condition known as pincer nail occurs when the lateral sides of the nail curl in an attempt to meet each other. It is also referred to as the trumpet nail. When the nail curves excessively, it begins to put pressure on the epidermis and the tissue surrounding it. Your discomfort increases at this point, and you start to feel the pain. Pincer nail is a characteristic that is frequently seen in toenails; however, some beauticians have reported seeing pincer nail under fingernails as well. Pincer nail is a frequent ailment that is defined by severe transverse nail bending, progressively compressing the nail bed distally, resulting in discomfort, pain, and functional impairment. Treatment is challenging and frequently ineffective. Positive results can be expected from surgical care provided by well-trained medical professionals. However, patients typically choose conservative therapies over invasive operations. Unfortunately, most treatments only provide transient relief, and the rate of recurrence is significant.

Pincer Nail Deformity Meaning

A disorder known as pincer nail malformation occurs when the nails of the fingers or toes develop a pincer-like or claw-like shape. Psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis are two examples of underlying medical problems that might contribute to the development of this condition. Other variables, such as trauma and heredity, may also play a role. The discomfort or difficulty caused by activities like typing or playing an instrument may be exacerbated if pincer nails are accompanied by other nail abnormalities like thicker or brittle nails. Conservative techniques, such as cutting the nails and providing protective cushioning, or more intrusive procedures, such as surgery, may be used to correct pincer nail deformity.

Pincer Nail Deformity Meaning, Symptoms, Causes, Correction, Treatment


Pincer Nail Deformity Symptoms

The disease known as pincer nail deformity, often described as the over-curving of the nail, causes the nails to bend downward and push against the surrounding tissue. The primary sign of pincer nail malformation is an unnatural curve of the nails, which can be uncomfortable and make some tasks, including typing or playing musical instruments, challenging. Other signs can include:

  • Fingertip discomfort or soreness
  • Having red or swollen fingertips
  • Changes in nail thickness or fragility
  • Nail alterations, such as a change in color or a roughening of the surface

Pincer Nail Deformity Causes

A pincer nail affects over 10% of the population. This disease has both superficial and deep-rooted causes. The most obvious cause of a pincer nail is poor filing. It's possible that manicurists are filing nails incorrectly because they're filing too quickly, or they could just be rushing through the appointment. When the free edge of the nail is filed too much, the skin around it can sometimes grow out to cover the space left behind. This happens when the nail is filed too deeply. The nail penetrates the skin farther due to further growth.

In certain people, fungal infections can cause changes in the nature and direction of the growth of their nails. This results in the nail growing inwards, squeezing the skin and producing a pincer nail.

Pincer nails can also develop naturally as a result of the nail's growth. Rarely, it might also be related to inherited factors. However, the majority of the time, the culprit is either approaching age or another health problem.

It is more likely for a woman to develop a pincer nail if she wears shoes that are particularly close-fitting. Due to the limited area between the toes, only a tiny spur is required to initiate an ingrowth.

Pincer Nail Deformity Treatment and Correction

The severity of pincer nail deformity and its underlying cause will determine the best course of treatment. The following are some possible treatments:

Conservative techniques can be used to treat pincer nail deformity in mild cases, such as protecting the nails with gloves, staying away from activities that cause strain on the nails, and using moisturizing products to the areas around the nails to minimize dryness and cracking.

Surgery: To repair the deformity in severe cases, surgery may be required. To straighten the nail, this can entail shaving off a little chunk of the bone at the tip of the finger.

Other treatments: Treating the underlying illness, such as a fungal infection or psoriasis, may help improve the appearance and functionality of the nails if the pincer nail deformity is brought on by one.

If you are careless with your footwear, a pincer nail may reappear despite all of these protections. Wear shoes with large toe openings to prevent the nails from being squeezed.

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