What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. This common condition can affect anyone but is particularly prevalent in the big toe.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
Tight Footwear: Shoes that crowd the toes can put pressure on the nails, leading to ingrowth.
Injury: Trauma to the toe can cause the nail to grow abnormally.
Genetics: Some individuals may inherit a tendency for ingrown toenails.
Common Symptoms
Pain and tenderness along the side of the toe
Redness and swelling around the nail
Drainage of pus or blood in severe cases
Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably
How a Podiatrist Can Help
Podiatrists are specialists in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails. Here’s how they can assist:
Diagnosis: A thorough examination of the affected toe to assess the severity of the ingrown toenail.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
Warm Soaks: Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Antibiotics: Prescribing topical or oral antibiotics if an infection is present.
Nail Care Education: Providing guidance on proper nail trimming techniques and footwear choices to prevent recurrence.
Minor Surgical Procedures: If conservative measures do not provide relief, a podiatrist may perform a minor in-office procedure to remove the ingrown portion of the nail. This can help alleviate pain and promote healing.
Partial Nail Removal: In recurrent cases, a podiatrist may recommend partial nail removal, where the problematic part of the nail is surgically removed to prevent future ingrowth.
Why Seek Help?
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort due to an ingrown toenail, consulting a podiatrist can help you find relief and prevent complications. Early treatment is essential for managing ingrown toenails effectively and getting back to your daily activities without pain!