If you answered yes, you might be experiencing Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown nails is the most common nail impairment. Ingrown toenails occur when the corner or side of nail digs painfully into the soft tissue of nail grooves, often leading to irritation, redness, and/or swelling.
Usually, toenails grow straight out. However, sometimes, one or both corners or sides of the nail curves and grows into the flesh.
The big toe is usually the victim of this condition but other toes can also be affected.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails may be caused by:
- Improperly trimmed nails
- Heredity
- Shoe pressure; crowding of toes
- Repeated trauma to the feet from normal activities
Be sure to trim your toenails straight across, not longer than the tip of the toes. Do not round off corners. Use toenail clippers.
Ingrown Toenails Home Treatment
People with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or other circulatory disorders must avoid any form of self treatment and seek podiatric medical care as soon as possible.
If you suspect an infection due to an ingrown toenail, immerse the foot in a warm salt water soak, or a basin of soapy water, then apply an antiseptic and bandage to the area.
Other "do-it-yourself" treatments, including any attempt to remove any part of an infected nail or the use of over-the-counter medications, should be avoided.
When to See a Podiatrist
Nail problems should be evaluated and treated by a podiatrist, who can diagnose the ailment, and then prescribe medication and/or perform appropriate treatment.
You should see a podiatrist immediately if any drainage or excessive redness is present around the toenail; or if a short trial of home treatment has not resulted in improvement.
A podiatrist will carefully remove the ingrown portion of the nail and may prescribe a topical and/or oral medication to treat the infection.
Permanent Correction
If ingrown nails are a chronic problem, a podiatrist can perform a procedure to permanently prevent ingrown nails. The corner of the nail that ingrows, along with the matrix or root of that piece of nail, are removed by use of a chemical, a laser, or by other methods. This is an easy and fast recovery procedure that most patients relate, “why did I wait so long to have this procedure done?”
If you or someone you know is experiencing an ingrown toenail please call 1 of Our Offices for an appointment. We are here to help! Also, for additional information please listen to our Educational Videos