Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the nail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This can happen on any toe but is most common on the big toe. Ingrown toenails can develop at the side or tip of the nail, with inner side ingrown toenails being more common. The primary causes include improper nail trimming, such as cutting nails too short or rounding the corners, wearing tight shoes, injury to the toe, or having naturally curved nails. Infections may also develop if left untreated, leading to pus, increased pain, and swelling. Treatment typically involves soaking the foot, applying antibiotics, and, in severe cases, surgically removing part of the nail. A podiatrist can provide expert care by gently removing the ingrown portion of the nail, offering pain relief, and advising on proper nail care to prevent recurrence. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and relief.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact David Cain, DPM of Iowa. 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 Ames, Iowa . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.