Ingrown toenails are a frequent problem and studies show they tend to affect men more often than women. The nail grows into the skin at the edge, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. While trimming the nail properly, soaking the foot, and wearing wide shoes can bring relief, these conservative steps do not always stop the condition from coming back. For many people, surgical correction offers a more reliable long-term outcome by removing part of the nail or reshaping the nail bed. In addition to wearing tight footwear and improper toenail cutting, ingrown nails may also develop from underlying medical conditions, poor foot hygiene, or even certain medications that alter nail growth. If you struggle with recurring ingrown toenails or notice signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore the most effective treatment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Arkady Kaplansky, DPM of California. 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
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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
