When a toenail is ingrown, it becomes curved and grows into the skin, usually on the sides of the nail. The digging of the nail into the soft flesh of the toe irritates the skin, often creating pain, redness, and swelling. Many times an ingrown toenail can break the skin, allowing bacteria to enter and create an infection. Causes of ingrown toenails include heredity factors, improper trimming, physical trauma to the toe, and nail conditions such as fungal infections. In order to prevent ingrown toenails, it is suggested to properly trim the nail, straight across and not too short, and also to wear proper fitting shoes and socks. If you have pain in your toe or believe you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a local podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.