Torn fingernail
A torn fingernail is often a problem for cosmetic rather than medical reasons and can usually be easily treated. If the crack is in the white area of the nail, the nail can be quickly cut or filed. Deeper cracks are painful and can lead to nail bed inflammation.
There are several causes for torn fingernails. It is quite normal that particularly long fingernails tear at some point, because the nail cannot grow on endlessly. Many people also have problems with torn nails because the nail structure is weak and the nail is too soft. A weak nail, especially in women, is caused by frequent painting or the application of artificial fingernails. But also a wrong diet and a lack of vitamins and minerals can lead to brittle nails.
Torn toenail
It is particularly unpleasant if a toenail tears. If the nail is torn very deeply, it is best not to cut it, but to wait until it grows out. Due to the fact that toenails grow much slower than fingernails (0.10-0.12 mm daily on the fingers and 0.03-0.04 mm on the toes), this can take several months.
Possibly the damaged toenail cannot grow straight out and a so-called torn toenail (Unguis incarnatus) develops. The nail grows into the nail bed and causes severe pain and inflammation. During healing, tissue (granulation tissue) grows around the ingrown nail. It is best if affected persons undergo professional foot care in such a case, since an ingrown nail is otherwise a very protracted and recurring problem. If a torn toenail is present, comfortable shoes should also be worn so that as little pressure as possible is exerted on the affected nail and it can grow out nicely.
Torn nail in the child
The thinner the nail, the higher the risk of damage. Depending on their age, children have thinner and therefore softer nails than adults. In babies the nail is only about 0.05 mm thick, whereas in adults it can measure up to 0.75 mm.
As a result, children particularly often tear a nail. Children should also cut back the affected nail as far as possible and then file it down. If the crack is deep, you can wrap a plaster around it until the crack has grown out.
Children often tear off the patch again, which can cause the crack to become deeper or the nail to crack completely. It is important that the wound is cleaned properly to prevent nail bed inflammation. Nail polish or a nail repair kit may also be used on children, depending on the age of the child.
If the crack is very deep or very inflamed, a pediatrician should be consulted. He or she will decide whether the crack needs antibiotic treatment or whether another form of treatment is necessary for cosmetic reasons. Normally, however, an anti-inflammatory cream and a small bandage is sufficient. If torn nails occur more frequently in children, it should be clarified with the pediatrician whether perhaps a deficiency symptom (e.g. calcium) is the cause.
