An ingrown toenail is a common foot condition. It occurs as a result of the skin growing into the sides of the nail instead of over it. The symptoms that are generally associated with this ailment often include extreme tenderness, swelling, and is often painful. The big toe is typically affected by an ingrown toenail, although it can affect the other toes. In severe cases, the affected toe may produce a discharge, and can become infected. Ingrown toenails can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, incurring a toe injury, or possibly from genetic reasons. Additionally, it may come from trimming the toenails incorrectly. Relief can come from soaking the toe in warm water, followed by gently pulling the skin away from the nail. If the ingrown toenail is severe, surgery may have to be performed that can remove part of the nail, or the entire nail. It is important to wear shoes that are comfortable, and fit correctly, and it is beneficial to refrain from wearing tight socks. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can recommend the right treatment for you.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . 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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.