Ingrown toenails are a common condition that can be easily treated if given proper care. When you are having pain due to an ingrown toenail, it's time to call the podiatrist. Dr. Brian Ting of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center in Moline, IL is the man to see.
What is an ingrown toenail
The official medical term for an ingrown toenail is onychocryptosis. An ingrown toenail is when the toenail grows into the skin of the toe, usually on the big toe. It is often a curved nail that does this.
Causes of ingrown toenails
Many things can cause an ingrown toenail. Heredity plays a role in creating the shape of your nails and certain shaped nails are more prone to becoming ingrown. Wearing socks and shoes that don't allow enough room for your toes to move freely can result in ingrown toenails. Cutting your toenails incorrectly can also lead them to growing into the skin. The toenail should be cut straight across and no shorter than the edge of the toe. Ingrown toenails can also be caused by trauma to the toe, such as a stubbed toe.
Symptoms of ingrown toenails
When it first occurs, you may notice that your toe near the nail has become hard, swollen and tender to the touch. If it becomes infected it will be red, swollen, very painful and you may see pus.
Treatments for ingrown toenails
Treatment usually begins at home if there is no infection involved. Feet need to be soaked two or three times a day for 15 minutes each time in warm water. Many people like to use Epsom salt in the water. Push the skin gently away from the nail. Wear sandals if you can to keep your toes from being confined.
If there is infection involved, it is time to see your podiatrist. If it becomes a recurring problem, your podiatrist has a few options to try. If more conservative treatments fail, the next escalation is the partial removal of the nail. The nail matrix may then be treated with a chemical to keep it from producing new nail cells and, hopefully, that should be the end of the problem. This procedure is done with local anesthesia, and you will need to take an antibiotic and put antibiotic cream on it.
For children with recurring issues, the complete removal of the nail may be suggested.
Contact Dr. Ting of Advanced Foot & Ankle Center in Moline, IL when you have ingrown toenail issues. We can be reached at 309-762-5655 or use the form on our website.