As small of an issue as it seems at first thought, an ingrown toenail can quickly become the top of your mind each day if it isn't addressed. It can become painful or even turn into a problem that requires surgery in extreme cases. Learn how to prevent ingrown toenails or get help with a worsening case at Chestnut Hill Podiatry Associates located in Philadelphia and Huntingdon Valley, PA.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails happen when the hard, sharp end of the nail bends into the softer surface of the skin. As the nail continues to grow, it becomes lodged deeper into the skin, which can cause a cut or wound. Ingrown toenails are usually caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or by clipping the toenails incorrectly.

Why Are Ingrown Toenails a Problem?

A case of ingrown toenails should not be taken lightly, especially by patients who have circulatory issues or wounds that take a long time to heal. They can create a number of problems including:

• Pain that makes it difficult to wear shoes.
• Walking problems can progress due to the growing discomfort.
• Cuts can form and become infected, particularly in patients with other medical conditions like diabetes or peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage).
• An unpleasant odor from the toe and drainage of fluid due to an infection.
• Aesthetic concerns for people who wear open toed shoes often.

Ways To Treat and Prevent Ingrown Toenails

Getting regular foot care with a podiatrist at Chestnut Hill Podiatry Associates in Philadelphia and Huntingdon Valley, PA. can help you prevent ingrown toenails. Here are some tips to follow if this is an ongoing concern:

• Clip toenails just above the skin so that the white of the nail is visible.
• Avoid clipping nails too short.
• Clip away unwanted parts of the nail at the first sign of a possible ingrown toenail and before it digs into the skin's surface.
• Treat wounded skin with a topical antibiotic and see your podiatrist immediately if it isn’t healing normally.
• Wear better-fitting, comfortable shoes.
• If there’s a fungal infection, have that treated by your podiatrist.

Schedule a Toenail and Foot Exam

Your toes and nails are important for protection and healthy movement throughout the day. Prioritize seemingly minor issues like ingrown toenails to avoid future foot complications. Call (215) 247-0879 or (215) 379-5112 today to have your ingrown toenails treated at Chestnut Hill Podiatry Associates in Philadelphia and Huntingdon Valley, PA.