Two years in pain...

In this case, the patient contacted me to say that she had been suffering with an ingrown toenail for almost two years. It had recently become a lot more painful and she wanted to get it sorted as, despite seeking other treatment, it simply wasn’t getting any better.

The patient is a healthy young lady with no other underlying health issues. Her job means she is on her feet for most of the working day, and her problem was constantly causing her major issues. Her employment and personal life were both being disrupted.

She presented with an ingrown toenail, having inflammation and severe pain. According to Scholz's classification, this was a stage 4a.

I start each therapy following my own original H.E.L.P. Method for assessment and for the planning of treatment.  I concluded the main causes of the problem were a fallen arch and badly cut toenails. My treatment plan was to use a system of two different types of bespoke bracing, combined with specialised dressings and pressure relief. In addition, correct footwear and medical orthotics to prevent recurrence and advice on correct toenail maintenance.

As you will see, the total solution didn’t just focus on the symptoms, but also addressed the primary cause of the problem. I was able to provide immediate pain relief and finally, after a number of visits, the toenail was restored to excellent condition and appearance. Another toenail has been saved and the patients normal activities resume!

The first photo shows the nail at the end of her first visit. The patient was quite distressed and in severe pain on arrival so I needed to get on with things and the fitting of the two small custom braces quickly calmed everything and allowed her to walk freely. I was then able to take the picture. The second photo shows the final result after concluding her course of treatment.