Transformation of a pincer nail into a healthy nail

Pincer Nail Deformity: A Comprehensive Guide to Treatment and Prevention

Elliot Brynn in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Discover the innovative triple combination therapy for pincer nail deformity and learn how to maintain healthy, pain-free nails."

Pincer nail deformity (PND) is a condition characterized by the excessive transverse curvature of the nail plate, which worsens along the nail's longitudinal axis. This painful and often debilitating condition can significantly impact your quality of life, making everyday activities like walking and wearing shoes a challenge.

While numerous conservative and surgical techniques have been employed to address PND, a universally accepted and effective solution has remained elusive. This article introduces a promising triple combination therapy that offers a simplified and rapid approach to restoring the natural curvature of the nail-matrix system.

This method synthesizes conservative and surgical treatments, potentially providing an effective alternative to existing procedures. We'll delve into the details of this innovative technique, explore its benefits, and offer practical advice for maintaining healthy, pain-free nails.

Understanding Pincer Nail Deformity: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Transformation of a pincer nail into a healthy nail

Pincer nail deformity involves an exaggerated curvature across the nail, leading to a cone-shaped appearance. This curvature often intensifies from the base to the tip of the nail, causing discomfort and pain. The exact cause of PND isn't fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute, including:

Recognizing the symptoms and understanding potential causes are the first steps toward effective management. If you suspect you have pincer nail deformity, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.

Trauma or injury to the nail
Fungal infections (onychomycosis)
Subungual exocytosis (bony growths under the nail)
Osteoarthritis
Psoriasis
Epidermoid cysts
Kawasaki disease
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Certain genetic conditions (genodermatoses) like epidermolysis bullosa simplex
Certain medications

The primary indicators for seeking treatment include persistent pain, inflammation, cosmetic concerns, and difficulty wearing shoes. These symptoms can significantly interfere with daily life, making timely intervention essential.

A Promising Path to Nail Health

The triple combination therapy offers a promising approach to managing pincer nail deformity, reducing pain, and improving overall nail health. By combining surgical matricectomy, thioglycolic acid, and anticonvex sutures, this innovative technique provides a comprehensive solution for restoring the natural curvature of the nail. If you're struggling with PND, discuss this approach with your healthcare provider to determine if it's right for you. With proper care and timely intervention, you can achieve healthy, pain-free nails and enjoy an improved quality of life.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1097/dss.0000000000001252, Alternate LINK

Title: Triple Combination Therapy For Pincer Nail Deformity: Surgical Matricectomy, Thioglycolic Acid, And Anticonvex Sutures

Subject: Dermatology

Journal: Dermatologic Surgery

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Authors: Adile Dikmen, Kadri Ozer, Mustafa Gurhan Ulusoy, Koray Gursoy, Uğur Koçer

Published: 2017-12-01

Everything You Need To Know

What exactly is pincer nail deformity, and why is it important to understand?

Pincer nail deformity (PND) is a condition where the nail plate curves excessively across the nail, creating a cone-like shape. This curvature often worsens from the base to the tip of the nail, leading to pain and discomfort. The significance of understanding PND lies in its potential impact on one's quality of life, affecting activities like walking and wearing shoes. Untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. While the exact cause isn't fully understood, factors such as trauma, fungal infections, and certain systemic conditions are believed to contribute.

What makes the triple combination therapy a noteworthy approach for treating pincer nail deformity?

The triple combination therapy is significant because it offers a comprehensive approach to managing pincer nail deformity. It combines surgical matricectomy, thioglycolic acid, and anticonvex sutures to restore the natural curvature of the nail. This innovative technique addresses both the physical deformity and the underlying issues contributing to the condition. It's especially important as a potential alternative to traditional surgical methods, promising a simplified and rapid way to restore nail-matrix system health.

What are the possible reasons that someone might develop pincer nail deformity?

Several factors can contribute to the development of pincer nail deformity (PND). These include trauma or injury to the nail, fungal infections like onychomycosis, bony growths under the nail known as subungual exocytosis, osteoarthritis, psoriasis, epidermoid cysts, Kawasaki disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), certain genetic conditions like epidermolysis bullosa simplex, and even certain medications. Identifying these causes is crucial for determining the most effective treatment and preventative measures.

How do I know when it's time to seek treatment for a pincer nail?

The primary indicators that you may need treatment for pincer nail deformity (PND) are persistent pain, inflammation, cosmetic concerns, and difficulty wearing shoes. These symptoms can significantly interfere with daily life, making timely intervention essential. Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your overall quality of life. Ignoring these symptoms may lead to chronic pain and further complications.

Besides the triple combination therapy, what are some other potential treatments or management options for pincer nails?

While surgical matricectomy, thioglycolic acid, and anticonvex sutures are key components of the triple combination therapy, other treatments exist. Conservative approaches, like orthonyxia (nail braces), can be used to gradually reshape the nail. Surgical options, beyond matricectomy, may involve widening the nail bed. Regular podiatric care and proper nail hygiene are also essential in managing and preventing PND. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the deformity and individual patient factors.