Ingrown Toenail Treatment

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

An toenail becomes ingrown when it curves downward and begins to grow into the surrounding skin. This tends to cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. While most ingrown nails are found on the big toe, any toenail can potentially become ingrown.

There are several potential reasons why an ingrown toenail can occur. Many involve external pressures and impacts on the nail, including:

• Tight shoes that compress the toes and nails.
• Trimming toenails too short and/or too rounded in the corners, encouraging curved growth.
• Trauma to the nail (such as from dropping something on it or the repetitive impacts of running) that can cause the nail to grow improperly.

There can also be a genetic component, in which you were simply born with nails that naturally grow inward. While other factors may be alleviated with changes in shoes and habits, advanced treatment may be needed if ingrown toenails simply run in your family.

When Should You Always Call Us for an Ingrown Toenail?

While some ingrown toenails can be mild enough to try to treat at home, there are certain situations when we will always recommend immediate professional care.

• The area is causing you too much pain.
• You suspect an infection (symptoms can include pus/drainage, severe pain, radiating red streaks from the area, and fever).
• You have diabetes, poor circulation, or other conditions that increase your risk of complications when handling foot injuries.
• You regularly suffer from ingrown toenails, despite taking preventative measures.

Please remember, however, that you can always contact us any time you have any concerns whatsoever about an ingrown toenail. You don’t necessarily need to fall under any of the above categories!