Ingrown Toenail
At Foot Focus Podiatry, we understand the discomfort and pain that ingrown toenails can cause, and we want to provide our patients with valuable information on the potential causes of this debilitating condition.
What is An Ingrown Toenail ?
An ingrown toenail is a painful condition that occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. While it commonly affects the big toe, it can develop in any toe on the foot. The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include pain, redness, and swelling in the affected area.
One of the main causes of an ingrown toenail is improper nail trimming. Cutting the nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin instead of straight out. This can lead to the development of an ingrown toenail.
Additionally, injuries to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it, can also contribute to the condition. In some cases, individuals may have an inherited nail shape that increases their susceptibility to ingrown toenails.
What are the symptoms of An Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail can cause discomfort and pain, and it occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. Understanding the symptoms of an ingrown toenail is essential for early identification and prompt treatment. While improper toenail-cutting practices are a common cause, there are several other factors that can contribute to the development of this condition. These include:
- Pain – may range from mild discomfort to intense throbbing, especially when pressure is applied to the toe or when wearing shoes.
- Redness and swelling – the skin may appear inflamed and feel tender to the touch.
- Infection – can include increased pain, warmth, pus, or drainage from the affected area, and the presence of an unpleasant odour.
- Difficulty walking – can be challenging to walk normally which can affect mobility and daily activities.
What Is Our Approach To Fixing / Treating An Ingrown Toenail?
Effective treatment for ingrown toenails requires careful consideration by a qualified podiatrist to achieve optimal outcomes. The appropriate treatment may vary depending on the stage of the diagnosed ingrown toenail, ranging from conservative techniques to surgical interventions. At Foot Focus Podiatry, we examine each patient on an individual basis and tailor our recommendations based on what you require.
Various measure might be put in place to alleviate pain and restore function, depending on the severity of your condition, and the treatment plan may include:
- Footwear advice – proper footwear selection can ensure adequate room in the toe box, preventing the nails from growing into the surrounding skin.
- Podiatry nail resection – this involves a podiatrist carefully cutting out the nail spicule with or without local anesthesia. It is often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate cases of ingrown toenails.
- Correct nail trimming and education – this includes avoiding curved cutting and leaving sharp edges, which can contribute to ingrown toenails.
- Padding the area – we may place cotton or a special dressing around the affected area to reduce irritation and protect the nail as it heals.
Download Our Free Report
Is an ingrown toenail causing you severe discomfort? Struggling to walk with the pain? Our free ingrown toenail guide offers practical tips to help relieve pain and discomfort at home. You’ll also learn more about what causes ingrown toenails and how to prevent them from recurring. Take control of your foot health and start feeling better today by downloading our comprehensive free report. Don’t let foot pain slow you down – take action today!