An ingrown toenail is the result of the nail growing into the skin instead of over it. This can happen from wearing shoes that are too tight or from trimming the toenails improperly. Some people will get an ingrown toenail from enduring a toe injury, or from inadequate foot hygiene. Additionally, there may be genetic factors that can cause an ingrown toenail to develop. Common symptoms that many patients experience can consist of the surrounding skin becoming red, swollen, and painful. If the nail becomes infected it may bleed and a discharge may ooze from the nail.  A proper diagnosis is done by having a physical examination of the foot performed, and an X-ray may be necessary which can determine the extent of the injury. Mild relief may be found when the foot is soaked in warm water, thus making it easier to gently pull the skin away from the nail. This is considered to be a temporary solution and a podiatrist is eventually sought who can provide permanent relief, which may include surgery.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Palmetto Podiatry Group of Anderson. 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

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 Anderson, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.