An ingrown toenail is defined as the edge of a toenail growing into the surrounding skin, which leads to irritation and inflammation. This condition most often affects the big toe and can become painful if left untreated. Causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight fitting shoes, repetitive pressure on the toes, or injury to the nail. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and discomfort along the nail border, sometimes accompanied by infection. Among the risk factors are curved nail growth, excessive sweating, poor foot hygiene, and repeated toe trauma. A podiatrist can safely treat ingrown toenails, relieve pain, and prevent infection through professional care. If you have toe pain or if swelling develops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.