Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails can be a real pain, figuratively and literally.

In this concise guide, we'll explore what ingrown toenails are, their symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and how to deal with them both at home and with the help of a podiatrist.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of a toenail

grows into the surrounding skin, often causing discomfort, redness, swelling, and even

infection.

Common Symptoms

Recognising the signs is crucial for timely intervention:

1. Pain and Tenderness: The area around the ingrown toenail becomes painful and

sensitive to touch.

2. Redness and Swelling: Inflammation can lead to redness and swelling of the affected

skin.

3. Infection Risk: Severe cases may result in infection, with pus or drainage.

4. Walking Discomfort: The discomfort can make walking uncomfortable.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase your likelihood of getting ingrown toenails:

1. Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges.

2. Tight Footwear: Wearing tight shoes can exert pressure on toenails, pushing them

into the skin.

3. Injury: Trauma to the toenail can trigger ingrowth.

4. Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed.

Diagnosis

Consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis, sometimes we may include X-rays to rule out

underlying issues such as bony exostosis.

Managing Ingrown Toenails at Home

You can ease the discomfort of ingrown toenails at home:

1. Soak Your Foot: Soak the affected foot in warm, salty water for 15-20 minutes to

reduce inflammation.

2. Gently Lift the Nail: Carefully lift the ingrown edge away from the skin using a clean,

sterile instrument, like dental floss or a cotton ball.

3. Apply Antibiotic Ointment: After lifting, apply over-the-counter antibiotic ointment

and cover with a bandage.

4. Wear Proper Footwear: Choose comfortable, well-fitting shoes.

Professional Treatment

Podiatrists like us are the experts in managing ingrown toe nails.

1. Conservative care: Your podiatrist will carefully resect the ingrown toe nail with

clippers and surgical blade, dress the toe appropriately and provide you with at

home care. This provides almost instant relief and is a short-term option if surgery

cannot be performed for various reasons.

2. Partial Nail Removal (Surgery): For severe or recurring cases, your podiatrist may

remove the ingrown nail section, apply a chemical that stops the nail from growing

back on the affected side, this is known as chemical matrixectomy. This is done in

the office under local anaesthetic. This fixes the ingrown nail for good! well 98%

success rate.

3. Antibiotics: If there's an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

Prevention is key:

1. Nail Trimming: Trim nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges.

2. Footwear: Opt for well-fitting shoes with ample toe space.

3. Foot Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections.

4. Regular Checks: Examine your feet for early signs of ingrown toenails.

In conclusion, ingrown toenails are common but manageable. If you're dealing with one,

don't hesitate to consult a podiatrist for expert care.

Your feet will thank you, and you'll be back on your feet in no time!