Ingrown toenails occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the adjacent skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Although the big toe is commonly affected, any toenail can become ingrown. Various factors contribute to ingrown toenails, including wearing ill-fitting shoes, improper toenail trimming, injuries, and inherent deformities. If the area becomes infected, characterized by redness, swelling and pus, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for immediate treatment. Severe cases of ingrown toenails may necessitate surgical intervention, involving the removal of the ingrown portion of the nail. Ablation, applying a small electrical charge or liquid solution during surgery, may help to prevent future ingrowth. In some cases a portion of the toenail, or the entire toenail may need to be removed. However, if you do not practice good foot care, the problem is more likely to reoccur. If you have surgery, it can take two to four months for your nail to grow back. Seeking a professional diagnosis is beneficial for those with recurring ingrown toenails or individuals with diabetes. Wearing comfortable shoes aids healing, but persistent or worsening symptoms require medical attention. To safely manage problematic ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry 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 one of our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.