Onychophosis

The presence of a hyperkeratosis (callus) and/or helomata (corn) in the nail sulcus is known as onychophosis (onychoclavus).  The accumulation of cells and other debris in the nail groove could make it worse.  A heloma is more common under distal edge of nail plate rather than down the sulcus.  It can be completely asymptomatic or excruciatingly painful.  The hallux nail folds are the most commonly affected.

Onychophosis is not always obvious and is often missed.  It does generally have a distinct hyperkeratosis appearance.  The periungual tissues may be inflamed in more severe situations.

Causes of Onychophosis

Onychophosis may be caused mostly by several nails and nearby soft skin deviations like onychocryptosis (ingrown nail), nail fold increasing, and onychomycosis (nail fungus).  Other onychophosis causes, such as recurrent minor injuries and inappropriate footwear may also play a role.

The toward the inside moving of the feet, results in rubbing on the outside skin of the big toes, and also the inside skin of the big toe, when it is pressed against the second toe.  The rubbing may also be seen on smaller toes, and it shows like an accumulation of rigid skin on the sides of the nails.

Treatment of Onychophosis

The upside is that onychophosis treatment and callus reduction is simple and hardly ever requires local anaesthetic.  Since the lumps in the skin or under the skin lack nerves, they can be removed without causing pain.

Moreover, onychophosis has a few potential treatment options, including the use of nail softeners, nail packing, and, in certain cases, removal.  Tough skin layers beneath the nail slacken, allowing for a painless excision of the keratinous substance.  It is advised that the patient apply the nail softener every day, but sparingly—just one drop on each affected area.  When the patient follows the advice, the callus should be much softer on the subsequent appointment, while being significantly less unpleasant, and therefore simpler to deal with.

Are you suffering from this condition?  At The Chelsea Clinic, we can help.  One of our podiatrist can assist and then recommend what treatments are best to get you back on track. Podiatrist South Kensington

Schedule an appointment here or you may call us at +44 (0) 207 101 4000. 

We hope you have a feetastic day! 

-The Chelsea Clinic and Team

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