At Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona, we understand how painful and frustrating ingrown toenails can be. Whether you’re in Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert, or Tempe, we want to help you prevent and treat this common foot condition that can interfere with your daily activities. Ingrown toenails are a condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection.
In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know about ingrown toenails, from identifying the symptoms to exploring effective treatments and preventive measures.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the skin surrounding the nail, leading to pain and inflammation. The condition most commonly affects the big toe, but can occur with any toenail.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including:
- Improper Nail Cutting: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can increase the likelihood of the nail growing into the skin.
- Tight or Ill-Fitting Shoes: Shoes that don’t allow enough room for your toes can cause pressure, contributing to the growth of an ingrown toenail.
- Trauma: A sudden injury to the toe, such as dropping something heavy on it, can cause the nail to grow abnormally and become ingrown.
- Genetics: Some individuals may inherit a natural predisposition to develop ingrown toenails due to the shape of their nails or feet.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Not keeping your feet clean and dry can increase the risk of infection and worsen the condition.
- Excessive Sweating: The moisture from sweaty feet can soften the skin and make it more vulnerable to toenail penetration.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can present with a variety of symptoms, which may include:
- Pain and Tenderness: You may experience sharp pain around the affected toenail, especially when wearing shoes or walking.
- Swelling: The area surrounding the toenail may become swollen, making it difficult to wear shoes comfortably.
- Redness: Inflammation around the nail is often accompanied by redness, indicating irritation or infection.
- Pus or Drainage: If the ingrown toenail becomes infected, you might notice pus or drainage from the affected area.
- Difficulty Walking: In severe cases, the pain and swelling may make it difficult to walk or perform daily tasks.
Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can usually be treated conservatively, but in some cases, professional care from a podiatrist is necessary. At Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona, we offer a range of treatments for ingrown toenails, depending on the severity of the condition.
1. Conservative Treatments
- Proper Nail Care: Trim the nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short to reduce the risk of the nail growing into the skin.
- Warm Soaks: Soaking the foot in warm water with Epsom salt can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Topical Antibiotics: If an infection is present, applying an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment can help prevent it from spreading.
- Padding and Cushioning: Using cotton or gauze to gently lift the nail can help relieve pressure and reduce discomfort.
2. Medical Interventions
If conservative treatments do not provide relief, our podiatrists, Dr. Alex Stewart, DPM, FACFAS and Dr. Antonius Su, DPM, may recommend more advanced interventions:
- Partial Nail Removal: In cases where the ingrown toenail is persistent, a portion of the nail may be removed to allow the skin to heal.
- Matrixectomy: In severe cases, a portion of the nail matrix (the root of the nail) may be removed to prevent the nail from growing back into the skin.
- Surgical Procedure: For recurrent ingrown toenails, a minor surgical procedure may be required to remove the nail or the affected part of the nail.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
While some factors like genetics can’t be avoided, there are several steps you can take to prevent ingrown toenails from developing:
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Ensure that your shoes provide enough space for your toes to move freely. Avoid tight or narrow shoes that put pressure on the toes.
- Proper Foot Hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes, to reduce the risk of infection.
- Trim Your Toenails Correctly: Always cut your nails straight across and avoid rounding the edges. Never cut them too short.
- Use Foot Care Products: Over-the-counter products like toenail softeners can help prevent ingrown nails, particularly if you’re prone to them.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
If your ingrown toenail causes persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection (such as redness or pus), it’s important to seek professional care. At Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and treatment for ingrown toenails to help you get back on your feet.
DIagnosis and Treatment Options at Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona:
- X-rays: We use advanced imaging to evaluate underlying conditions that may be increasing the severity of the ingrown toenail.
- Surgical Interventions: In severe or recurring cases, our experienced podiatrists offer surgical options to remove the ingrown toenail and prevent future problems.
If you're struggling with an ingrown toenail or foot pain, don’t wait—contact Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona today at 480-963-9000 or request an appointment online. Our team is here to help you get back to pain-free walking with effective treatments for ingrown toenails and other foot conditions.