Patients who have had ingrown toenails are often familiar with the pain and discomfort that is often associated with them. It occurs as a result of the edge of the toenail growing into the surrounding skin.  This can happen if shoes that are worn do not fit correctly, and the toes may be crammed together.  Additionally, this condition may be caused by trimming the toenails in a rounded fashion instead of straight across.  Common symptoms that many patients notice are pain around the edge of the toenail, redness, and swelling.  Moderate relief can be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, as this will be beneficial in softening the affected area.  If it becomes infected, it is strongly advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this ailment.

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 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 are 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.

You don't have to suffer from ingrown toenails.  Consider calling our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, Arizona  to find out your options and get relief.