An ingrown toenail happens when the nail edge presses into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Wearing tight footwear, nail trimming habits, injury, and natural nail shape often play a role. Treatment usually focuses on the affected nail itself rather than changing the overall shape of the foot. However, some people with severe or repeated ingrown toenail problems may also have flat feet, which can change how pressure is distributed across the toes and make the condition more difficult to control. A podiatrist can determine whether the issue is simply the nail or whether foot mechanics are contributing to the problem. Care may include reducing inflammation, treating infection, removing the problematic nail border, or addressing pressure-related concerns. If you have recurring or painful ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate relief and treatment solutions.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Waterbury Podiatry Consultants. Our doctors 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
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 offices located in Waterbury and Southington, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
