Book an appointment

Onychauxis (Thickened Nails)

Onychauxis is a condition characterised by the thickening of the entire nail plate, often accompanied by transverse ridging. This condition can cause discomfort, affect the appearance of your nails, and potentially lead to more serious complications if left untreated. At The Walking Clinic, we understand how onychauxis can impact your daily life and are here to provide expert diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms

At The Walking Clinic, our experienced podiatrists diagnose plantar fasciitis through:
  • Thickening of the entire nail plate
  • Transverse ridging across the nail
  • Discoloration of the nail
  • Difficulty trimming the affected nails
  • Discomfort when wearing shoes

Causes

Onychauxis can be caused by various factors, including:

Trauma to the nail

Poor peripheral circulation

Fungal infections (mycotic infections)

Pressure from ill-fitting footwear

Age-related changes in nail growth

Diagnosis

At The Walking Clinic, our podiatrists diagnose onychauxis through:
  • Visual examination of the affected nails
  • Discussion of your medical history and symptoms
  • In cases of suspected fungal infection, we may perform a short trial (6 weeks, twice daily application) of topical terbinafine hydrochloride cream/spray in conjunction with nail debulking to rule out mycosis
  • If severe mycotic infection is suspected and oral terbinafine is recommended, we may take nail scrapings for culture and analysis

Treatment Options

We offer a range of treatment options for plantar fasciitis:

Nail debulking

Regular thinning of the thickened nail to improve comfort and appearance

Treatment of underlying causes

Addressing fungal infections or circulatory issues

Topical medications

Application of antifungal creams or ointments if infection is present

Oral medications

In severe cases of fungal infection, oral antifungal agents may be prescribed

Lifestyle and footwear advice

Recommendations to prevent further nail trauma

Preventive Measures

To manage onychauxis and prevent its progression:
  • Maintain good foot hygiene
  • Wear properly fitting shoes to avoid pressure on nails
  • Address underlying health conditions that may contribute to poor circulation
  • Regular visits to a podiatrist for professional nail care and early detection of issues

FAQs

What does a Podiatrist do?
A podiatrist is a health care professional specialising in the management and treatment of the lower limb and foot. A podiatrist can help treat a wide range of conditions and help in the management of chronic disease and even general foot care. The helpful podiatrists at The Walking Clinic can treat a wide range of problems, these include :
  • Plantar Fasciitis, heel pain and heel spurs
  • Fungal nail infections and nail problems
  • Tendon and ligament injuries
  • Morton’s neuroma or nerve pain
  • Surgical and Non-Surgical treatment of ingrown nails
  • Treatment of other nail conditions
  • Custom orthotics as management of lower limb pain
  • Diabetes assessment and care
  • Knee pain
  • Tired and painful feet
  • Fractures and stress fractures
  • Ankle sprains
  • Children’s lower-leg development and growing pains
  • General foot care including corns and callus
  • And Many More!
In general circumstances, No referral is required, however Medicare EPC patients or Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) patients will require a referral from their GP.
During your initial consultation your podiatrist will take a thorough history concerning your presenting problem as well as your medical and surgical history. Your podiatrist will make all efforts to accurately diagnose your condition and initiate treatment during your first visit where possible.

The Walking Clinic offers HICAPS facilities which allow convenient on-the-spot health fund rebates for patients insured with eligible health funds. We advise patients to contact their health fund for further information regarding rebates.

It is a requirement that fees are paid at the time of your consultation.

If you have a chronic and complex medical condition, such as diabetes, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate under the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program. This is a care-plan arrangement between the Walking Clinic and your GP, however your GP alone will decide if you are a suitable candidate. If you have any questions regarding EPC care plans, please feel free to contact us for information. Alternatively please contact Medicare on 132 011.
Yes. DVA Gold Card holders will receive a full rebate for podiatry consultations and other treatment related expenses with a valid referral from their GP. Please contact us prior to seeking a referral to receive the necessary information for your GP. For other forms of Veterans’ Affairs Cards (such as Green or White cards) please contact DVA on 133 254 for details regarding podiatry related rebates.

Book an Appointment

Book An Appointment

FOLLOW US

Instagram Facebook Youtube
Navigation
Conditions We Treat
Our Locations
  • Belconnen : 02 6251 5149
  • Lyneham : 02 6249 1758
  • Manuka : 02 6201 1788
  • Woden : 02 6282 5466
  • Garran : 02 6147 5797
  • Murrumbateman : 02 6249 1758
  • Hall : 02 6249 1758
Book Appointment
Our Physio Partner

The Canberra Physio Clinic

© The Walking Clinic

Built by Complete X

Book an appointment