Why is my toenail growing a second nail underneath it?

Have you ever looked down at your big toenail and thought, “Why does it look like I have another toenail growing underneath it?” It can be a strange thing to notice, particularly when the nail appears thick, layered or as though a completely new nail is growing underneath the old one. The good news is that this does not necessarily mean that you have a fungal nail infection. There are several reasons why a toenail can develop a layered or “double nail” appearance.

So, what is actually going on?

Has your toenail been repeatedly traumatised?

One of the most common reasons for a toenail to change its appearance is repeated trauma. This can happen without one obvious injury. Activities such as running, hiking or playing sport can repeatedly cause the toe to move against the front or top of the shoe. Shoes that are too short or narrow can also place repeated pressure on the toenail. Over time, this can interfere with normal nail growth. The nail may become thickened, distorted or appear to have a second layer developing underneath it. This is particularly common in people who are active or regularly wear footwear that puts pressure on the toes.

Could it be an old nail growing out?

Sometimes what looks like a second toenail is actually new nail growing underneath an older, damaged nail. If the original nail has been damaged, it may stop growing normally or partially separate from the nail bed. A new nail can then gradually grow through underneath it. As the new nail grows forward, the old damaged nail may remain attached for some time, creating the appearance of two nails. This process can take quite a while because toenails grow slowly. So even if the original cause of the nail damage has resolved, the nail can continue to look unusual for months.

Does it mean I have a fungal nail infection?

Not necessarily.

Fungal nail infections can cause nails to become thickened, discoloured and distorted, but not every thick or unusual looking toenail is fungal. Trauma, footwear pressure and changes in the way the nail grows can all produce similar appearances. This is why it can be difficult to determine the cause simply by looking at the nail yourself.

When should you have it checked by a Podiatrist?

If a toenail has suddenly changed, continues to become thicker or is causing discomfort, it is worth having it assessed by one of our Melbourne podiatrists.

At Melbourne Podiatrists and Orthotics, Camberwell, our podiatrists can examine the nail and surrounding skin, consider your footwear and activity levels, and determine whether the appearance is more consistent with trauma, altered nail growth or another nail condition. If you are unsure why your toenail has developed a “second nail”, don’t assume it is fungal and start treating it yourself. Finding the underlying cause is an important first step in deciding what treatment, if any, is appropriate.

How can our podiatrists help?

At our Melbourne podiatry clinic, we regularly assess changes in toenails, including thickened, damaged, discoloured and painful nails.

If you have noticed what looks like a second toenail growing underneath your existing nail, our Melbourne podiatrists can assess the nail and help determine why it has changed and what can be done to manage it.

Do you a strange looking toenail?

At our Melbourne foot clinic our podiatrists are experts in foot and nail care and can diagnose the cause of toenail problems.

So if you have a strange looking toenail, best get it checked !  Book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!