Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper trimming like rounding the corners, tight shoes, trauma, or genetic predisposition. While most people know ingrown nails cause pain at the toe’s edge, a lesser-known issue is chronic recurrence, which can lead to thickened skin and nail deformities over time. Symptoms include redness, tenderness, swelling, and sometimes drainage or pus. The area may feel warm and throb with each step, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. Over time, untreated cases can lead to serious infections or skin overgrowth. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a simple exam. Treatment ranges from conservative care to partial or full nail removal for persistent cases. Proper nail care education and footwear advice can also help prevent recurrence. If you are dealing with this painful condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. 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 Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
