Ingrown Toenails
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails occur when the corner or edge of the toenail grows into the skin, causing pain and inflammation. The most common causes include:
- Improper toenail trimming.
- Trimming toenails too short or in the corners can cause the nail to grow into the skin.
- Trauma: Injuries to the toe, such as stubbing or dropping something on it.
- Genetics: Some people may be more prone to ingrown toenails due to the shape or structure of their toenails.
- Tight footwear: Shoes or boots that are too narrow can force the nail into the soft tissue of the toe.
Symptoms Of
Ingrown Toenails
It is usually evident if you have an ingrown nail unless it is completely buried in the skin. If you suspect an ingrown nail, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness along the side of the toenail.
- Swelling and redness around the toenail.
- Infection, which may cause drainage or pus.
What Is The Treatment?
Treatment options for ingrown toenails depend on the severity of your problem. In mild cases, simple home remedies such as soaking the foot in warm salty water and practicing good nail cutting technique can reduce your symptoms. Other cases may need antibiotics from your GP to clear infection along with advice on nail cutting technique from our expert podiatrists.
Along with cutting advice and routine treatment our podiatrists can perform nail surgery that can permanently remove the affected ingrown edge/s. These procedures prevent any ongoing problems with the nail involved.
What Is A Nail Surgery?
Ingrown toenail surgery is a minor procedure that involves removing a portion (partial nail avulsion) or all of the affected toenail (total nail avulsion). This is completed under local anesthesia and typically takes less than an hour to complete.
To prevent the problematic nail from growing back our podiatrists use a technique called phenolisation which neutralises the cells that cause the nail to grow. This is highly effective and minimally invasive, no incisions or stitches. This results in quicker healing times and reduced risk of infection.
The procedure is performed in our offices by our experienced podiatrists.
How You Can Prevent Ingrown Toenails?
Not all ingrown toenails require surgical intervention, here are a few things you can implement at home:
- Cut toenails straight across and avoid rounding the corners.
- Wear properly fitting shoes that provide adequate space for the toes.
- Avoid injuring the toes and protect them during physical activity.
- Maintain good foot hygiene by keeping feet clean and dry.
- Treat infection appropriately if the nail becomes infected.
- See a podiatrist if it doesn’t resolve.
If you have any questions or concerns book an appointment with one of our podiatrists today.
