Ingrown Toenails
1. What is it ?
Ingrown toenails are a common condition in which the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the skin surrounding the nails.
2. Causes
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes that crowd the toenails
- Cutting toenails too short or not straight across
- Injury or trauma to the toenail
- Abnormal shape of the nail plate, including flat, wide, curled, or pincer-like shapes
- Fungal nail infections
- Certain medical conditions that cause an abnormal nail plate e.g. psoriasis
3. Signs and Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness
- Inflamed skin
- Swelling
- Infection (with collection of pus or even an abscess)
4. Treatment
- Correct removal of the offending nail spicule: see a podiatrist
- Footwear modification: supportive footwear that are wide and deep enough to prevent crowding of toes.
- Proper nail trimming technique: keep the nails at moderate length (not too long or too short), and ensure to cut your nails straight across
- Nail surgery: Recommended for recurrent cases whereby the offending portion of the nail is permanently removed with an in-office, minimally invasive surgical procedure.