Understanding Why You Shouldn't Press on Your Toenails: Causes, Complications & Remedies

Understanding Pressing on Toe Nails

Pressing on toe nails, especially ingrown ones, can be painful yet tempting at the same time. Many people find themselves unconsciously applying pressure to their toenails without realizing it. However, consistently pressing on toenails can lead to a number of issues that may warrant medical attention.

What Causes the Urge to Press on Toenails

There are a few common reasons why you may feel compelled to press on your toenails:

• Ingrown toenails Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the skin surrounding it, causing pain, redness, swelling, and infection. Pressing on an ingrown nail may temporarily relieve some of the discomfort, but will ultimately make the problem worse.
• Fungal nail infections Toenail fungus can cause thickening and distortion of the nail. This may lead to a buildup of debris under and around the nail that can cause discomfort. Pressing on the nail may offer temporary relief, but spreads the infection.
• Nail injuries If you stub or jam your toe, it can result in a toenail injury. There may be bleeding or bruising under the nail that causes pressure. Pressing on the nail may alleviate the feeling temporarily but increases risk of further injury.
• Poorly fitted shoes Shoes that rub against your toenails or are too tight can cause pain, inflammation and damage to nails. You may press on nails for relief but this can lead to additional issues.
• Anxiety/stress Many people unconsciously press on their nails as a nervous habit or to relieve stress and anxiety. This can become a chronic problem resulting in damage.

Problems Caused by Pressing on Toes

Consistently pressing on your toenails can exacerbate underlying issues or create new ones, including:

• Increased risk of infection Pressing on toenails can expose them to bacteria and fungal infections.
• Permanent nail damage Applying too much pressure can actually change the shape of the nail or detach it from the nail bed.
• Breakage and tearing Pressing too hard can cause nails to break or tear, which is extremely painful.
• Additional swelling and redness The toe area can become inflamed due to excessive irritation.
• Compromised circulation Putting too much strain on a nail can impact blood flow and circulation to the injured area.

When to See a Podiatrist

You should make an appointment with your podiatrist or foot doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms from pressing on your toes and nails:

• Bleeding, drainage or oozing from affected nails
• Persistent or worsening pain in toes or nails
• New corns, calluses, blisters or ulcers near nails
• Signs of infection like swelling, heat, red streaks
• Discoloration or thickening of nails
• Detached or loose nails
• Difficulty walking

Seeking timely medical care can help prevent lasting damage and deformities. Based on an exam, your podiatrist can determine if prescription medication or surgical options may be warranted like nail debridement or removal.

Preventing Urges to Press on Toes

Making some key lifestyle changes and using conservative treatments at home may help diminish urges to press on nails:

Address Underlying Foot Conditions

Having conditions like fungal nail infections, ingrown nails, corns, calluses and plantar warts treated properly will help avoid discomfort that leads to nail pressing. This may include medicated ointments, debridement procedures, orthotic devices or corrective shoes based on your specific situation.

Proper Toenail Cutting

Cutting your nails too short or rounding the edges can lead to ingrown toenails. Use sharp clippers or nail scissors to cut them straight across to help avoid issues.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

Wear shoes with adequate toe room that fit properly without squeezing or rubbing. Poor footwear is one of the leading causes of toenail issues that result in frequent pressing for relief.

Practice Nail Care

Keep feet and nails clean and dry, filing down thick nails carefully to avoid injury. Apply antifungal powder or spray to prevent infections which can prompt pressing on nails.

Cushion with Gel Pads

Placing gel pads, such as Dr. Scholls Stylish Step Insoles, under the ball of the foot can relieve discomfort caused by calluses, bunions and shoe pressure so youll press on nails less often.

When Pressing Becomes Problematic

Occasionally pressing on your nails may provide temporary relief but chronic, excessive pressing causes damage. This nervous habit or impulse control disorder is known clinically as onychotillomania.

Individuals with onychotillomania have difficulty resisting urges to pick at, peel, bite, chew or manipulate nails using fingers. This can occur consciously or unconsciously. Treatment may involve therapy, stress reduction techniques, oral medication or restraints to prevent touching nails.

If you or a loved one struggles with chronic nail pressing issues that interfere with daily living, speak to your doctor or mental health professional regarding behavioral modifications or solutions to explore for breaking this destructive cycle.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.