
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, injury, or genetic predisposition. The affected toe, usually the big toe, may feel tender to the touch and appear red or swollen, sometimes with drainage or pus, if infected. Walking can become uncomfortable or even painful. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical exam and recommend appropriate treatment. Mild cases may be managed with proper nail care and antibiotics, if infection is present. For recurring or severe cases, surgical options, such as partial or full nail removal or removal of the nail root, may be necessary. Aftercare typically includes keeping the area clean, applying medication, and wearing open-toed or loose-fitting shoes to allow healing. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to relieve pain and prevent complications.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM of Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor 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
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. 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 Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.