Ingrown Toenail

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the soft tissue of your toe. Most of the time the condition affects the big toe, but any toe can have an ingrown nail. If you have diabetes or another health condition that affects your circulation, you have an increased risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail?

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail occur on or around the nail bed, and may include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Pain

When an ingrown toenail becomes infected, you may notice the presence of pus, darkening in color, or a sensation of heat or cold within your toe.

What causes ingrown toenails?

It’s not always obvious what causes an ingrown toenail. Certain factors may contribute to the condition, including:

• Tight-fitting shoes
• Toe injuries
• Cutting toenails too short
• Jagged nail edges

Hereditary factors, including foot structure abnormalities, may also increase your risk for ingrown toenails.

What is the treatment for an ingrown toenail?

Many ingrown toenails will resolve on their own, but if you have persistent pain or signs of infection, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention. If your toenail is infected, and it’s left untreated, you may develop complications such as a bone infection, nerve damage, or soft tissue death.  

The skilled podiatrists at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey will examine your toenail and take a detailed health history to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs. Treatment options include:

• Foot soaks
• Antibiotic ointment
• Oral antibiotics

Severe cases of an infected ingrown toenail may require an in-office surgical procedure to lift or partially remove the toenail.

Can an ingrown toenail be prevented?

To reduce your risk of developing an ingrown toenail, always trim your toenails straight across with no rounded edges. You should also keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid shoes that are too tight or don’t fit properly.

If you’re bothered by pain from an ingrown toenail, or you have symptoms of an infection, call Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey today, or book an appointment online.