The medical condition that is known as ingrown toenails can produce severe pain and discomfort. It is defined as the outer edges of the nail growing into the surrounding skin, and typically affects the big toe. It can occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, or from improperly trimming the toenails. Additional reasons why this may happen can include excessively sweaty feet, also referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis, as well as genetic factors, or from a toe injury. Mild relief may be found when the affected toe is soaked in warm water, followed by using a piece of cotton to gently separate the nail from the skin. For more severe cases, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.