Ingrown toenails can become a nuisance when they start causing pain. If not treated, ingrown toenails can also lead to infection. There are many ways to prevent ingrown toenails, and those include maintaining your feet often. When cutting your toenails, make sure to cut straight across and refrain from cutting them in a round shape. Avoid wearing footwear that is tightly-fitting and uncomfortable as well as socks that can push your nails. Being mindful of the comfort of your feet is important for maintaining your overall health.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, consult with Dr. Jon M. Sherman of Kentlands Foot & Ankle Center . Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. 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 office located in Gaithersburg, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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