Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, instead of growing over it, causing pain, tenderness, redness, and swelling. This often occurs on the big toe. Preventing ingrown toenails involves cutting nails straight across and avoiding trimming them too short. Wearing proper-fitting shoes and socks can also reduce pressure on toes. Ingrown toenails can be very painful. If you suffer from persistent or infected ingrown toenails, it's suggested that you seek professional care from a podiatrist. They can safely trim or remove the ingrown portion of the nail, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and offer advice on preventing future occurrences. Prompt treatment from a podiatrist can prevent complications, such as infection or the need for more extensive procedures.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM of Advanced Care Foot and 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

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 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 Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.