An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Tight footwear, improper nail trimming, toe injuries, and inherited nail shape can all contribute. Early treatment from a podiatrist may include relieving pressure, reducing inflammation, treating infection if present, and safely correcting the nail edge. In recurring or severe cases, a minor in-office procedure may be recommended to remove part of the nail and help prevent the problem from returning. Prevention focuses on proper nail trimming, avoiding overly tight shoes, managing excessive foot moisture, and addressing foot structure issues that increase pressure on the toes. Attempting aggressive self-treatment can worsen pain or introduce infection, especially for people with diabetes or circulation concerns. Prompt care can prevent a minor nail problem from becoming more serious. If you are dealing with persistent toe pain or have signs of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . 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
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 Bowie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
