Nail care process
Nail pain, thickening and discoloration can have different causes. Assessment guides the treatment and follow-up plan.
Assessing the nail and everyday factors
We assess colour, thickness, shape, surrounding inflammation, footwear pressure and grooming habits.
Nail clinic care
How care proceeds
Follow the steps from nail assessment and causes to treatment and daily care.
- 1
Examine the nail and skin
We assess colour, thickness, shape and pain or inflammation around the nail.
- 2
Assess possible causes
We consider fungal infection, ingrown nails, repeated pressure, injury and grooming habits.
- 3
Tests when indicated
Tests for fungal infection may be considered when a fungal nail infection is suspected.
- 4
Plan individual care
Treatment and care are selected according to the diagnosis, symptoms and general health.
- 5
Care and recurrence prevention
We explain nail trimming, footwear and foot hygiene.
Ongoing care and prevention
After care, review drying, pressure and trimming habits to manage recurrence risk.
Dry your feet
Dry feet after washing, keep socks clean and reduce damp conditions in shoes and socks.
Reduce pressure
Choose ventilated footwear and review sources of repeated pressure.
Avoid aggressive trimming
Do not cut nails excessively short or tear at deformed areas.
Keep tools personal
Keep nail tools clean and avoid sharing them.
FAQ
What treatments are available for toenail fungus?
Topical and oral antifungal medications are the main options. For thick nails, a procedure to reduce thickness may be added depending on the condition. One method or a combination is used according to the extent of infection and your health.
What does an ingrown toenail brace do?
A brace applies force to the curved nail to reduce the pressure of its edge on the skin. Whether it can be used depends on the nail's thickness and shape and the condition of the skin. It is not suitable for every ingrown toenail and is decided after examination.
Can I have gel nails or a pedicure during treatment?
Restrictions may be needed depending on the nail's condition and the medication used. Covering the colour makes changes hard to see, and application and removal can cause damage. If there is infection, lifting or inflammation, treat it first and discuss when to resume.
Can I be treated if I have diabetes or am pregnant?
An examination lets us choose a method suited to your condition. With diabetes, wounds, infection, sensation and circulation in the feet must be considered, so do not cut or file deeply yourself. During pregnancy or breastfeeding the medicines that can be used may differ, so please tell us in advance.
How can I check treatment costs and National Health Insurance or private insurance coverage?
Costs vary with the diagnosis, the number of nails treated, and the method and number of sessions. After the examination you can confirm the expected cost and whether National Health Insurance applies. Private indemnity insurance coverage depends on your policy, its terms and the treatment, so please check the required documents and criteria with your insurer before treatment.
Discuss the approach that fits your condition
Discuss the potential benefits and limitations before deciding on a care plan.
When it hurts, Dr. Anapa
Face or pain, we start by finding out why. Book by phone or online.