Ingrown Toenails
IF YOU HAVE INGROWN TOENAILS, PLEASE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
What are Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail, usually on the big toe, grows into the skin surrounding it. As the nail penetrates the skin, it causes pain, swelling, and redness, often leading to infection if not treated promptly.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may respond to soaking the foot in warm water, gently lifting the nail, and keeping the area clean. More severe cases may require antibiotics if infected. In some instances, surgical intervention to remove part or all of the ingrown nail. Proper nail care and wearing shoes that fit well can help prevent ingrown toenails from recurring.
Causes for Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are primarily caused by improper nail trimming. This happens when cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can cause them to grow into the surrounding skin. Moreover, wearing shoes that are too tight can also compress the toes and encourage the nails to grow into the skin. However, injury to the toe, such as stubbing or dropping something heavy on it, can lead to ingrown toenails as well.
Additionally, factors such as genetics and the natural shape of the toenail can contribute to the development of ingrown nails. For example, nails that naturally curve or are unusually thick are more prone to growing into the skin. Poor foot hygiene, particularly not keeping feet clean and dry, can also increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails. Thus, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive and cause infection.
However, proper nail care, wearing well-fitted shoes, and being mindful of foot hygiene deem essential in preventing ingrown toenails.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for ingrown toenails depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, soaking the affected foot in warm water several times a day and gently lifting the edge of the ingrown nail can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Applying antibiotic ointment and using sterile cotton or dental floss under the nail can prevent it from growing into the skin further.
For more severe cases or when infection is present, medical intervention may be necessary. This can include trimming or removing the ingrown portion of the nail under local anesthesia to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. In some instances, a procedure called partial nail avulsion may be performed. This procedure removes a portion of the nail or its root to prevent future ingrowth.
Preventive measures include wearing properly fitting shoes and avoiding tight hosiery that puts pressure on the toes to prevent them from digging into the skin. Regular foot hygiene and careful monitoring of the nails can help catch and treat ingrown toenails early. Thereby, reducing the need for more invasive treatments.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK TO AN ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST IN DALLAS, FORT WORTH, OR THE LONE STAR STATE, GIVE US A CALL AT 817-697-4038, OR CONTACT US OVER THE WEB. TELE-MEDICINE APPOINTMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE.
