An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. If you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail, a podiatrist can provide professional care to address the issue and prevent further complications. Podiatrists, as specialists in foot health, are trained to assess the severity of the condition and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Here’s information on the causes, treatments, and preventative steps for ingrown toenails:
How Ingrown Nails Form
The most common cause of ingrown toenails is improper nail trimming. Cutting toenails in a curved shape or too short may encourage the nail’s edges to embed themselves into the surrounding skin as they grow. Unlike fingernails, toenails should always be trimmed straight across, and their length should not dip below the tips of your toes.
Attempting to clip an already ingrown section of the nail can also worsen the problem. While it might bring short-lived relief, the regrowth process often forces the nail to dig deeper into the skin. This may lead to increased discomfort over time. Here are some other causes of ingrown nails:
Poorly Fitting Footwear
Ill-fitting shoes are a major contributor to ingrown toenails. Shoes that are too tight or narrow can exert constant pressure on your toes, causing the nails to dig into the surrounding skin. Tight shoes, such as high heels, are known to exacerbate the problem since they push the toes forward, cramming them into a limited space.
Toenail Trauma
Physical injuries to the toenail, such as stubbing your toe or heavy objects falling on it, may lead to irregular nail growth. This may increase the risk of ingrown nails. Even repeated minor trauma from vigorous physical activities, like running or soccer, can gradually encourage nails to grow improperly.
Genetic Toenail Abnormalities
Sometimes, the shape and structure of your toenails make you more prone to developing ingrown toenails. Genetic factors can contribute to the condition even when proper foot care is practiced. Overly curved nails or nails that are naturally thicker are some genetic factors that may make ingrown nails more common.
How Ingrown Nails Are Treated
For mild to moderate cases, a podiatrist can intervene to prevent the issue from escalating. They may trim the nail correctly and position a splint under the edge to lift it away from the skin. This method gently guides the nail back onto its intended growth path. If there are early signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, your podiatrist might prescribe antibiotics to treat it. An X-ray may also be ordered to verify that the surrounding bones have not been affected.
Severe cases of ingrown toenails may require more advanced interventions. If the nail has deeply embedded itself into the skin, minor surgery might be necessary. The ingrown portion, or in some cases the entire toenail, can be removed under local anesthesia. All of these procedures aim to alleviate pain and resolve the issue while minimizing the risk of infection.
How to Avoid New Ingrown Nails
Preventing ingrown toenails often comes down to fundamental but straightforward habits, like:
- Trimming Toenails Properly: Always cut toenails straight across to prevent the edges from curving into the skin. Avoid trimming them too short. Ideally, nails should align with the tips of your toes.
- Wearing Well-Fitting Footwear: Choose breathable shoes with sufficient room for your toes, especially during physical activities. Avoid restrictive shoes or high heels that crowd the toes.
- Protecting Your Toes from Trauma: Be cautious during physical activities. If your job involves heavy lifting, use protective footwear to safeguard your toes from potential injuries.
- Monitoring for Problematic Nails: If you inherit particular foot and nail shapes that increase the risk of ingrown toenails, schedule routine check-ups with a podiatrist. Regular foot care can help you stay ahead of potential problems.
Learn More About Ingrown Toenails
Having an ingrown toenail can be uncomfortable and, if left untreated, may escalate to infections or other complications. For expert guidance on treatment or prevention, consult with a podiatrist to restore comfort and protect your foot health. A podiatrist can offer personalized advice on footwear, hygiene, and techniques to reduce pressure on your toes. Don’t wait, benefit from healthier feet today.