An ingrown toenail is often a painful and uncomfortable condition that may result from wearing shoes that are too tight. It occurs when the side of the nail on the big toe grows into the surrounding skin, and this may cause swelling and discomfort. It may also develop from a genetic trait, or from cutting the toenails incorrectly. Additionally, some patients may have endured an injury to the toe, which may have caused an ingrown toenail. Mild relief may be found by soaking the foot in warm water. If the toe should become infected, there are noticeable symptoms that may indicate this. These may include bleeding, redness, or a discharge that may drain from the toe. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg of Complete Family Foot Care Center. 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 Littlestown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.