Ingrown toenails, a common condition where the nail grows into the toe's skin, can lead to infections if not properly managed. They most often affect the big toe and can result from trauma, improper nail trimming, and wearing tight footwear. The skin surrounding the ingrown nail becomes red, swollen, and painful, and may produce pus, indicating an infection. Preventing infection in ingrown toenails involves proper foot hygiene and nail care. Toenails should be cut straight across, avoiding rounding the corners which can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing properly fitting shoes that provide enough space for the toes to wiggle freely in can also reduce the risk. If you have an ingrown toenail and suspect an infection, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . 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 Bowie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.