INGROWN TOENAILS

How do you get it?

An ingrown toenail can be the result of trauma, such as stubbing your toe, having an object fall on your toe, or engaging in activities that involve repeated pressure on the toes, such as kicking or running. They are very common and often painful condition in which the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the adjacent skin of the toe. This condition most commonly affects the big toe, but it can occur in any toe. Ingrown toenails can range from mildly uncomfortable to severely painful, and they can lead to infection if not properly managed. Infected toes and ingrown toenails can be very painful. Don’t worry, our Podiatrists can help. 

The most common cause is incorrect trimming. Cutting your nails too short encourages the skin next to the nail to fold over the nail. Another cause of ingrown toenails is wearing shoes that are tight or short. Certain nail conditions are often associated with ingrown toenails. For example, if you have had a toenail fungal infection or if you have lost a nail through trauma, you are at greater risk for developing an ingrown toenail.

If your ingrown nails are causing you pain, you may need to book an appointment for a Nail & Skin Appointment. Your Podiatrist will give a proper assessment to determine the cause of the ingrown nail and provide tips on how to avoid them.  A treatment plan may include:

• Oral antibiotics. If an infection is present, an oral antibiotic may be prescribed on referral to your doctor.
• Minor Surgery
• Ingrown Toenail Removal Surgery