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.
What are Causes for Ingrown Toenails?
Improper nail trimming is one of the most common causes of ingrown toenails. Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can cause the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. Wearing tight-fitting shoes can also place pressure on the toes, increasing the likelihood of the nail growing inward. In some cases, toe injuries, such as stubbing a toe or dropping a heavy object on the foot, can trigger an ingrown toenail. Genetics and natural nail shape can also play a role. People with naturally curved or thick toenails have a higher risk of developing ingrown nails because the nail is more likely to press into the skin. Poor foot hygiene, including failing to keep the feet clean and dry, can further increase the risk by creating an environment where irritation and infection can develop.
What are Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails?
Treatment for ingrown toenails depends 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 nail can reduce inflammation and encourage healing. Applying an antibiotic ointment and placing sterile cotton or dental floss under the nail can help guide it away from the skin and prevent further irritation. If an ingrown toenail becomes severe or infected, a podiatrist may recommend medical treatment. This may involve trimming or removing the ingrown portion of the nail under local anesthesia to relieve pain and reduce the risk of recurrence. In some cases, a partial nail avulsion removes a portion of the nail or nail root to prevent future ingrowth.
You can help prevent ingrown toenails by wearing properly fitted shoes and avoiding tight hosiery that places pressure on the toes. Maintaining good foot hygiene and regularly checking your nails can help you identify problems early and seek treatment before the condition worsens, reducing the need for more invasive procedures.
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.
