Toenails

Rachel Miller is a highly experienced HCPC-registered chiropodist and podiatrist who provides routine toenail care and treats a wide range of toenail problems including thickened, discoloured, fungal (onychomycosis), brittle, split, ridged or painful nails as well as ingrown toenails. Many people of all ages also choose to see a podiatrist simply for regular professional toenail cutting and care.

Looking after your toenails is an important part of maintaining good foot health, mobility and independence. You should see an experienced podiatrist if a nail problem is painful, persistent, changing in appearance or you have diabetes or poor circulation.

Rachel is a caring practitioner who approaches her treatments with gentleness and sensitivity.

For ingrown toenail see the Ingrown toenails page. For nail surgery see the Nail surgery page.

Please see below if you want more detailed explanation of nail conditions.

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Toenails

Toenail problems can have many different causes, from trauma and footwear to fungal infections, skin conditions and underlying health problems. Routine toenail care can also be particularly difficult for older people and those with limited mobility, disabilities or medical conditions such as diabetes.

Symptoms of nail problems

There are many common nail conditions that can have numerous causes and symptoms including:

Thickened nails
Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis)
Discoloured nails
Brittle, crumbly or splitting nails
Loose nails
Ingrown toenails
Ridged nails
Pitted or indented nails

Causes and conditions associated with toenail problems

There are many different causes of toenail problems, as well as medical conditions that can affect the appearance and health of the nails. These include:

Fungal nail can cause nails to thicken, discolour and become brittle.
Trauma, overuse or injury can cause bleeding under the nail (subungual haematoma) which may appear black or dark purple.
Poor circulation can cause nails to be thin, brittle or discoloured.
Psoriasis can cause nails to become pitted, thickened or discoloured.
Eczema can cause the nail to be brittle, split and discolour.
Certain medications such as chemotherapy, beta blockers and antibiotics can cause nail problems.
Diabetes can cause thickening, discolouration and brittleness.
Ill-fitting shoes can cause toenail problems, such as ingrown toenails.
Smoking can cause the nail to be brittle, discolour and thicken.
Frequent use of some nail polishes and nail polish removers can contribute to dry or brittle nails.

Treatment of toenail problems

By maintaining good foot hygiene, you can prevent many nail, foot and leg problems. An experienced podiatrist can help diagnose and treat more complex toenail problems which may also indicate underlying conditions. For ingrown toenail see the Ingrown toenails page. For nail surgery see the Nail surgery page.

Treatment for nail problems may include:

routine nail care that can include trimming or thinning the nail
self-care advice
appropriate topical or oral anti-fungal preparations
antibiotics or other medications if required
nail surgery in some recurrent or severe nail conditions
footwear advice

If you encounter a nail problem, Rachel can diagnose your condition and develop a management plan that can help you maintain good nail care and good overall health.

Rachel Miller’s clinic, Highgate Podiatry, is in Highgate Village, 14 Pond Square, N6 6BA, London. Clinics are held every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. Please contact the clinic for an appointment on 020 8348 5553. For the clinic’s address, map and directions see the Contact page and for information about orthotic insoles and biomechanics see the Biomechanics page.

Call the Clinic for an appointment

What happens during an appointment for my toenails?Rachel2026-07-23T14:28:33+00:00

What happens during an appointment for my toenails?

A new routine podiatry consultation will normally include taking a detailed medical and nail history, examining your toenails and the surrounding skin, and assessing whether there are any underlying nail problems that require treatment. During that consultation, Rachel will also provide appropriate routine nail care and treatment and discuss any further treatment or advice that may be helpful.

Rachel is a caring practitioner who approaches her treatments with gentleness and sensitivity, taking the time to ensure that you feel comfortable and understand any treatment that is recommended.

When should I see a podiatrist about my toenails?Rachel2026-07-23T14:11:44+00:00

When should I see a podiatrist about my toenails?

You can see a podiatrist for routine toenail care even if you do not have a particular medical condition or nail problem. Many people of all ages choose to have their toenails professionally trimmed and cared for.

You should also consider seeing a podiatrist if you find it difficult or uncomfortable to cut your own nails or your toenail is painful, persistently thickened, discoloured, brittle, split or changing in appearance.

Professional assessment is particularly important if you have diabetes, poor circulation or another medical condition that may affect your feet. A podiatrist can assess the nail, help identify the likely cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Do I need a GP referral to book an appointment to see Rachel Miller?Rachel2026-03-24T12:03:51+00:00

Do I need a GP referral to book an appointment to see Rachel Miller?

No. You may be referred to Rachel Miller by your consultant, GP, or another medical professional but you can self-refer, book online or call Highgate Podiatry’s reception, who can help you find a convenient appointment.