NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE
Involuted (Curved) Nails
An involuted nail is one that curves more than usual at the sides. This is very common and often causes no problems at all.
In some cases, the curved edges can press into the surrounding skin, causing pain or discomfort.
What are involuted nails?
An involuted nail is one that curves more than usual at the sides. This is very common and often causes no problems at all. In some cases, the curved edges can press into the surrounding skin, causing pain or discomfort.
Most involuted nails can be managed at home — by yourself, with help from a family member or friend, or with a private podiatrist if needed.
NHS Podiatry does not routinely treat involuted nails. Most people manage well at home. If your nail is causing significant pain alongside a nail problem that is not improving, contact your podiatry department for advice. If your nail progresses to an ingrown toenail, see our Ingrown Toenails page.
Are you at higher risk?
If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, use a nail file rather than clippers to keep your nails short and smooth. Ask a family member or friend to help if needed. If your nail is causing any skin damage, see when to contact your podiatry department below.
What causes involuted nails?
- The shape of your nails – some people are simply born with more curved nails
- Tight or narrow footwear pressing on the nail over time
- Repeated pressure or trauma to the toe
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis
What you can do at home
Nail Care:
Cut straight across the top of the nail — not rounded at the corners. Rounding the corners encourages the nail edges to curve further into the skin. Use toenail clippers rather than scissors for better control and file down any sharp edges afterwards.
If you find it hard to reach your feet, ask a family member or friend to help. Long-handled toenail clippers and nail files are available from some pharmacies.
Footwear:
Tight or narrow shoes press on the sides of the nail and make curving worse over time. Check there is a full thumb’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, and that nothing is squeezing the sides of your toes. Avoid pointed footwear where possible.
When to contact your podiatry department
Involuted nails that are not causing pain or breaking the skin do not need medical attention. Contact your podiatry department if:
- the nail is pressing into or breaking the surrounding skin
- the skin around the nail becomes red, hot or swollen
- there is fluid or pus leaking from the nail
These may be signs that your nail has become ingrown and that you urgently need seen by a podiatrist. Read our Ingrown Toenails page for further advice.
Need more support?
If home nail care is not possible and you have no one to help, a private podiatrist can provide regular nail care. Always check they are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) at www.hcpc-uk.org.
Affordable local nail care services may also be available — your GP surgery or local council can advise.
Self-Referral Form
CONTACT INFORMATION
NHS Lothian Podiatry
Mon-Thu: 8:30am-4pm
Fri: 8am-3:30pm
Telephone: (0131) 536 1627
ABOUT US
Podiatrists are allied healthcare professionals trained to help prevent, diagnose, and treat problems affecting your feet and lower limbs.
Podiatry’s primary aim is to improve the mobility, independence, and quality of life for their patients.
SHARE THIS PAGE
© NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE.
