If you're living with lymphedema, you likely already know how it can impact your legs and feet. But did you know it can also affect the health of your toenails? Lymphedema, which causes chronic swelling due to poor lymphatic drainage, can have several negative effects on nail growth and appearance. Here’s what you should know.
Reduced Circulation and Nutrient Delivery
Lymphedema slows down the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to the tissues, including the toenail matrix—the part of the toe where new nail cells are formed. This can lead to slower nail growth and nails that are weaker or more brittle. The toenails may appear dull, ridged, or take longer than usual to grow out after trimming.
Higher Risk of Infections
The fluid buildup in the skin creates an environment where fungus and bacteria can thrive. This increases the risk of developing toenail fungus (onychomycosis) or infections around the nail bed (paronychia). Any small break in the skin—such as a hangnail, a cracked cuticle, or even a nick from trimming—can become a portal for infection, and healing is often delayed in people with lymphedema.
Changes in Nail Texture and Shape
Over time, chronic swelling and inflammation can cause toenails to thicken, become discolored, or grow in unusual shapes. Nails may become crumbly or brittle. In some cases, the pressure from swollen toes inside shoes can cause nails to become ingrown, increasing discomfort and the risk of secondary infections.
Delayed Healing
Lymphedema slows the healing process. If you injure a toenail—whether by stubbing your toe or trimming the nail too short—it may take much longer to heal than it would otherwise. This delayed healing can lead to complications, especially if an infection sets in.
What You Can Do at Home
If you have lymphedema, regular foot and nail care is essential. Here are some tips to help you protect your toenail health:
Inspect your feet and nails daily for signs of infection or injury.
Keep your feet clean and dry.
Spray your feet daily with our Lighthouse Daily Defense HOCl Spray to help prevent bacterial and fungal infections and soothe inflammation.
Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting too short.
Wear supportive footwear that doesn’t compress the toes.
Consider regular medical nail care, especially if you have difficulty trimming your own nails or have signs of fungal infection.
How We Can Help in the Office
At Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center, we offer several treatment options to improve the appearance and health of toenails affected by lymphedema:
Toenail debridement: We carefully reduce thickened nails to make them look and feel better, while lowering the risk of fungal buildup and ingrown nails.
Onyfix® nail correction system: A non-invasive, pain-free treatment to correct involuted or ingrown toenails without surgery—ideal for sensitive or swollen toes.
Referrals to a lymphedema clinic: We can connect you with trusted lymphedema therapists who specialize in compression therapy and manual lymph drainage.
Prescription compression stockings: Properly fitted medical-grade stockings help reduce swelling and improve circulation in the legs and feet, which can benefit overall foot and nail health.
Let’s Keep Your Feet Healthy—Together
If you’re noticing changes in your toenails or struggling with swollen, uncomfortable feet due to lymphedema, we’re here to help. Our comprehensive care includes everything from preventative advice to advanced in-office treatments.
Call 207-774-0028 or visit www.lighthousefootandankle.com to schedule your visit.