Ingrown Toenails
Conditions
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, inflammation and potential infection. This common foot ailment can affect people of all ages and if left untreated, may cause persistent discomfort.
Ingrown Toenails: What Are They?
Causes
Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including:
- Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage ingrown toenails.
- Ill-fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes that crowd the toes or putting excessive pressure on the toenails can contribute to ingrown toenail formation.
- Genetics: Some individuals may inherit a predisposition to ingrown toenails.
- Injury: Trauma to the toenail, such as stubbing or repetitive pressure, can lead to ingrown toenails and picking the skin
Signs and Symptoms:
Identifying the signs of ingrown toenails is crucial for timely intervention. Look out for the following symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness along the side of the toenail.
- Redness and swelling around the affected area.
- Infection, indicated by pus or drainage.
- Difficulty wearing shoes or discomfort when walking.
Professional Solutions:
At City Chiropody & Podiatry, our skilled podiatrists offer a range of effective solutions to address ingrown toenails and provide relief:
- Nail Trimming and Education: We educate patients on proper nail-trimming techniques to prevent ingrown toenails from recurring.
- Conservative Treatment: Mild cases may be managed through conservative measures, including soaking the foot in warm water and applying antiseptic.
- Partial Nail Avulsion: For persistent or severe cases, a partial nail avulsion with or without matrix removal procedure may be recommended to remove the ingrown portion of the toenail.
Prevention:
Preventing ingrown toenails involves adopting good foot care practices:
- Trim toenails straight across and avoid rounding the edges and don’t scrape or pick the skin around the edges of the nail
- Wear well-fitting shoes that provide adequate toe space.
- Maintain good foot hygiene and inspect your feet regularly.
Ingrown toenails can be both painful and persistent, affecting your daily comfort. At City Chiropody & Podiatry, our dedicated team is here to provide expert care and solutions to address ingrown toenails effectively. Don’t let foot discomfort hinder your activities. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet.
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