An ingrown toenail is a painful condition where the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This can lead to redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes infection. Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including improper nail trimming, wearing tight-fitting shoes, injury or trauma to the toe, genetic predisposition, and underlying health conditions such as fungal infections or abnormalities in foot structure. When nails are cut too short or rounded, they may have a tendency to curve and penetrate the adjacent skin. Wearing tight footwear exerts pressure on the toes, pushing the nails into the skin. Additionally, injuries or repetitive activities that put pressure on the toes can cause the nail to grow abnormally. Genetic factors can influence the shape and structure of toenails, increasing the likelihood of ingrowth. Ingrown toenails can be painful. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can treat this ailment, and offer you effective prevention methods.
Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Redness
- Warmth
- Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail.
Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON .
