There are several ways to develop the painful and uncomfortable condition known as an ingrown toenail. It occurs when the toenail grows into the skin on the side of the nail and may occur due to several different reasons. These may include trimming the toenails incorrectly, wearing shoes and socks that are too tight, or possibly enduring an injury to the toe. There may be options, which may provide moderate relief, including soaking the toe in warm water, wearing the correct footwear that has adequate room for the toes to move about in, or taking antibiotics for an ingrown toenail that becomes infected. Research has shown there are three stages that take place when this condition occurs. The first phase consists of swelling around the side of the nail. Possible drainage and increased pain may be present in phase two, and phase three will typically consist of chronic and recurring infections. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to discuss the best treatment for you.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. 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
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 offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
