Many older persons do not have the strength, skill, eyesight, or tools to trim their nails, especially if the nails are deformed, and should seek podiatric medical care for those services. Ingrown Toenails Ingrown nails, the most common toenail impairment, are nails whose corners or sides dig painfully into the soft tissue of nail grooves, often leading to irritation, redness, and swelling. Usually toenails grow straight out. Sometimes, however, one or both corners or sides curve and grow into the flesh. And Other Infections Toenails are hiding places for dirt, and can serve as breeding ground for infection-causing bacterial and fungal organisms.
Fungal infections are among the most troublesome of nail conditions to treat.
They are often characterized by thickening, discoloration, and separation of the front of the nail from the nail bed. In some cases, the nail crumbles. If treatment with medication is unsuccessful, the nail may have to be removed. However, removal does not necessarily prevent the nail from growing back, or fungal infection from recurring. In older persons with impaired circulation, such as diabetics, medical treatment is generally preferable to surgery.