# A Case of Distal Nail Embedding Successfully Treated With a Slit-Tape Strap Taping Method

## TL;DR

A 22-year-old woman's distal nail embedding was successfully treated with a taping method that is noninvasive and easy to apply.

## Contribution

The slit-tape strap method is shown to be effective for treating distal nail embedding, a novel application of the technique.

## Key findings

- The slit-tape strap taping method resolved distal nail embedding in a 22-year-old woman.
- Nail thickening improved over 17 months of treatment with the taping method.
- The method is noninvasive, easy to apply, and effective for this condition.

## Abstract

Ingrown nails are a common condition, typically affecting the great toe, and are classified into lateral ingrown nails, retronychia, and distal nail embedding (DNE). DNE occurs when the nail plate's distal edge embeds into the nail fold, often following onycholysis or nail avulsion, with hypertrophy of the hyponychium obstructing nail growth. This condition causes nail discoloration, thickening, and pain, requiring treatment to restore proper nail growth. While surgical and conservative treatments are available, conservative approaches such as taping are more accessible but can be hindered by sweat or exudate. The slit-tape strap taping method, originally designed for pincer and lateral ingrown nails, provides superior adherence and longitudinal tension. We report a successful case of this method applied to a 22-year-old woman with DNE, resulting in full resolution of the condition and improvement in nail thickening after 17 months. This case highlights the slit-tape strap taping method as an easy-to-apply, noninvasive, and effective treatment for DNE.