An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. This common condition typically affects the big toe but can occur in any toe. Ingrown toenails can be a source of discomfort, and if left untreated, they can lead to more serious problems, such as infections or chronic pain.
At Sassy Feet Podiatry, our foot health professional specialize in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails, offering both non-invasive and surgical solutions to ensure your feet remain healthy and pain-free.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including:
- Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can cause the nail to grow into the skin. It’s important to follow the shape of the nails when cutting.
- Tight or Ill-Fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow can put pressure on the toenails, causing them to grow inward. High heels or shoes that compress the toes are common culprits.
- Injury or Trauma: Injuries such as stubbing the toe or dropping something heavy on it can damage the toenail and lead to ingrown nails.
- Genetics: Some people may inherit a predisposition to ingrown toenails, particularly if their toenails are naturally thick, curved, or have a tendency to grow abnormally.
- Excessive Sweating: Sweaty feet can increase the risk of toenail problems, including ingrown toenails, because moist skin can make the toenail edge softer and more likely to grow into the skin.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Failing to properly clean and care for the feet can lead to nail deformities or infections that contribute to ingrown toenails.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails:
The symptoms of an ingrown toenail can range from mild to severe, depending on how deeply the nail has grown into the skin. Common symptoms include:
- Pain and Tenderness: Typically along the side of the affected toe, especially when pressure is applied (e.g., wearing shoes or walking).
- Redness and Swelling: The skin around the toenail becomes inflamed, and in some cases, a bump may form near the edge of the nail.
- Infection: If the ingrown toenail is left untreated, it may become infected. Signs of infection include pus, increased redness, warmth, and throbbing pain.
- Visible Nail Deformity: The toenail may look misaligned, and the skin may appear raised or irritated near the nail’s edge.
Treatment Options for Ingrown Toesnails:
Treatment for ingrown toenails depends on the severity of the condition. At Sassy Feet Podiatry , our foot health Professionals offer various treatment options to relieve pain and prevent further complications:
- Nail Trimming and Partial Nail Removal:
- If the ingrown toenail is causing persistent pain or infection, the podiatrist may carefully trim or partially remove the affected portion of the nail to alleviate pressure and allow the nail to grow properly. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
- Surgical Treatment (For Severe or Chronic Cases):
- Permanent Nail Removal: For recurring or severe ingrown toenails, a minor surgical procedure may be required. The podiatrist will remove part or all of the nail and, in some cases, use a chemical to prevent the nail from growing back. This is usually done under local anesthesia and is a highly effective solution to prevent future ingrown toenails.
When to see a Podiatrist
It’s important to see a podiatrist if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent or worsening pain in the toe, especially when pressure is applied.
- Signs of infection, including redness, warmth, or pus.
- Recurring ingrown toenails, even after attempting home remedies.
- Difficulty trimming your toenails due to thick nails or other foot conditions.
- If you have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation or nerve function in your feet.
Our foot health professionals at Sassy Feet Podiatry are here to help you with professional care for ingrown toenails, whether it’s a simple trim or a more advanced surgical treatment.
