My toenails are starting to curve downward and dig into the skin. Why does this happen with age?

Daily activities that involve repetitive pressure on the toes, such as walking or running, can also contribute to toenail curvature. Over time, this chronic pressure can alter the natural growth pattern of the nails, leading to increased curvature and potential discomfort.

Another common change in aging nails is thickening, which can make the nails more susceptible to curving. The thicker the nail, the more pressure it exerts on the surrounding skin and nail bed, which can encourage downward growth.

Dryness is also a factor, as aging nails often lose moisture, becoming more brittle and prone to splitting. This can exacerbate curvature issues, as dry, brittle nails are less flexible and more likely to grow in a downward direction, causing potential discomfort and pain.

Certain medical conditions can predispose individuals to changes in nail shape. Arthritis, for example, can cause changes in the structure of the bones in the feet, which in turn affects nail growth and curvature.