Ingrown toenails, a common and often painful ailment, result from the toenail's edge growing into the surrounding skin. Various factors contribute to their occurrence, with improper toenail trimming being a leading cause. Cutting nails too short or rounding them rather than maintaining a straight edge can encourage ingrowth. Wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks that squeeze the toes may also exert pressure, pushing the toenail into the skin. Additionally, injury or trauma to the toe can contribute to this uncomfortable condition. Preventing ingrown toenails involves adopting meticulous nail care practices, trimming them straight across, and avoiding tight footwear. Maintaining good foot hygiene, especially during pedicures, can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown toenails. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. John C. Lawlor of Florida. 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 one of our our offices located in Cape Coral and LaBelle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.