Ingrown Toenails – The Foot Doctor

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This common condition primarily affects the big toe.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow into the skin.
Tight Footwear: Shoes that are too tight or narrow can press the nail into the skin.
Injury: Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing or dropping something heavy on it.
Genetics: Naturally curved nails that are more prone to becoming ingrown.
Poor Foot Hygiene: Not keeping feet clean and dry increases the risk.
Foot Structure: Conditions like flat feet, bunions, or excessive pronation.

Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Pain and Tenderness: Pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the nail.
Redness and Swelling: Redness and swelling around the affected area.
Infection: Infection indicated by pus or drainage.
Overgrowth of Skin: Overgrowth of skin around the nail.

Prevention of Ingrown Toenails

Proper Nail Trimming: Cut nails straight across and avoid rounding the corners.
Wear Appropriate Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and do not squeeze the toes.
Maintain Foot Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry, and change socks regularly.
Avoid Trauma: Be cautious to avoid injuring your toes.
Regular Foot Checks: Inspect your feet for early signs of ingrown toenails, especially if you have diabetes or other conditions that affect foot health.

Treatment of Ingrown Toenails

Home Care

Soak the Foot: Soak the foot in warm, soapy water or an Epsom salt solution to reduce swelling and pain.
Keep the Foot Dry: Keep the foot dry and clean.
Wear Loose-Fitting Shoes: Wear open-toed or loose-fitting shoes.
Lift the Nail Edge: Gently lift the edge of the ingrown nail and place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under it to help it grow above the skin.

Medical Treatment

Antibiotics: If an infection is present, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
Partial Nail Removal: In severe cases, a doctor may need to remove part of the nail to allow it to grow back correctly.
Complete Nail Removal: For recurrent ingrown toenails, the entire nail may be removed, and the nail matrix may be treated to prevent regrowth.

Seek Medical Attention If:

Pain and Swelling Worsen: If the pain and swelling worsen despite home care.
Signs of Infection: If there are signs of infection, such as pus, increased redness, or a foul odor.
Medical Conditions: If you have a medical condition that affects your circulation or immunity, such as diabetes.

Conclusion

Ingrown toenails can be painful and disruptive, but with proper care and preventive measures, they can often be avoided. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, professional medical treatment can provide relief and prevent complications. Prioritizing foot health is essential for overall well-being and maintaining an active lifestyle. For more information on ingrown toenails and professional foot care, visit The Foot Doctor today and schedule an appointment with our experienced team.