An ingrown toenail can make every step uncomfortable, especially when shoes press against a sore toe. It develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. The big toe is affected most frequently, although other toes can develop the problem. Early signs include tenderness, redness, and swelling along the nail's edge. As irritation increases, the area may become more painful. An infection can develop when the broken skin allows bacteria to enter. Yellow or green drainage, throbbing pain, and spreading redness can signal infection. These symptoms can make walking difficult and interfere with everyday activities.
Several factors can lead to an ingrown toenail. Cutting toenails too short or rounding their corners can leave sharp edges that dig into the skin. Wearing tight shoes can squeeze the toes and increase pressure around the nails. Heavy sweating can soften the surrounding skin, making irritation more likely. A toe injury or an unusually curved nail can also contribute. Ingrown toenails affect people of different ages, including teenagers and adults. People with diabetes or reduced feeling in their feet face greater risks from an unnoticed infection. Persistent pain or signs of infection deserve prompt attention. Understanding the cause helps reduce the chance of repeated problems.
A podiatrist can examine the affected toe and determine whether the nail has irritated or infected the skin. For a mild case, treatment can include carefully lifting the nail edge and protecting the surrounding area. A podiatrist can also recommend shoes with enough room for the toes and explain proper nail-trimming techniques. More severe or recurring cases may require removing the troublesome portion of the nail under local numbing medicine. The podiatrist can provide appropriate care for an infection and monitor healing. Early treatment can relieve pressure and help prevent further complications. If you have developed ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Clinic of South Carolina. Our doctors 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 offices located in Mauldin and Clinton, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
