Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Prevention and Treatment

Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Prevention and Treatment 

Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that can cause significant discomfort and, in some cases, lead to more serious infections. This blog will explore what ingrown toenails are, their causes, prevention methods, and available treatment options.

What Are Ingrown Toenails?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh of the toe. This condition can result in pain, redness, swelling, and occasionally infection. While it can affect any toe, it most commonly occurs in the big toe. Factors that contribute to ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and foot injuries.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails:

Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can lead to the growth of the nail edge into the surrounding skin.

Tight Footwear: Shoes that squeeze the toes together can put pressure on the nail and cause it to grow inward.

Injury: Trauma to the toenail, such as stubbing your toe, can also lead to an ingrown nail.

Genetics: Some people have a hereditary predisposition towards ingrown toenails, often due to the shape of the toenail.

Poor Foot Hygiene: Failing to keep feet clean and dry can increase the risk of infections that may exacerbate ingrown toenails.

Prevention of Ingrown Toenails

While not all ingrown toenails can be prevented, many can be avoided with proper foot care. Here are some tips:

Proper Nail Care
   -Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. This helps prevent the toenail's edges from digging into the surrounding skin.
   - Do not round the corners of your toenails.

Wear Proper Footwear
   - Choose shoes that provide enough space for the toes, allowing them to move comfortably without pressure.
   - Avoid high heels and shoes with pointed toes for extended periods.

Maintain Foot Hygiene
   - Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash them regularly and dry completely, especially between the toes.
   - Moisturize the feet to prevent skin cracking, which can lead to ingrown toenails.

Protect Your Feet 
   - Wear protective footwear when engaging in activities that may cause foot injury, such as sports or construction work.

Monitor Changes
   - Pay attention to any signs of redness, swelling, or pain around the toenails, especially if you have a history of ingrown toenails.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails

If you develop an ingrown toenail, there are several treatment options available, ranging from home remedies to professional medical care.

Home Remedies

Warm Soaks
   - Soak your foot in warm, soapy water several times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Cotton or Dental Floss 
   - Place a small piece of cotton or unwaxed dental floss under the ingrown edge of the nail after soaking to help it grow above the skin.

Topical Antibiotics
   - Apply over-the-counter antibiotic ointments to prevent infection if the skin breaks.

Professional Treatment

If home treatment does not alleviate the pain or if signs of infection develop (such as pus or increasing redness), see a healthcare provider or a podiatrist. They may recommend:

Lifting the Nail
   - For mild cases, the doctor may lift the ingrown edge and place a splint or cotton under it to encourage correct growth.

Partial Nail Removal 
   - If the ingrown toe is particularly painful, the doctor may remove the ingrown section of the nail in a minor surgical procedure.

Permanent Nail Removal
   - In severe or recurrent cases, the doctor might recommend removing the entire nail and preventing it from growing back.

If you experience persistent pain or infection, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala at Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling (469) 572-3427 or booking online at www.restorefoot.com.