Ingrown toenails can be characterized as a toenail that grows into the surrounding skin. This condition is often painful and typically requires professional care for best treatment results. As far as why ingrown toenails develop, there are a few factors that may contribute. For starters, trauma to the affected toenail, such as having a larger object fall on your toe, may damage your nail, causing it to become ingrown. Improperly trimming your toenails is one of the most common reasons for developing this condition. If a toenail is trimmed on a curve, instead of straight across, or if it is trimmed too short, an ingrown toenail may develop. Other factors such as genetics, size of the toenail, and poor hygiene may all play a role in the development of an ingrown toenail. For more information about what the risk factors are of an ingrown toenail, please consult with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Scott Shrem of Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hazlet, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.