An ingrown toenail most often involves the big toe, which becomes painful as the nail grows into the surrounding skin. The discomfort is generally caused by pressure from the toenail rubbing against the inside of a shoe or boot. That action then produces redness and swelling. People with more curved toenails may experience recurring bouts with this condition. Treatment for an ingrown toenail is dependent upon the severity of the problem and whether or not it has become infected. An infected toenail may ooze fluid or pus. It is a good idea to seek treatment at the earliest sign of a problem. Keeping the toenails cut straight across is one way of preventing an ingrown toenail. Wearing open toed shoes or sandals while dealing with an ingrown toenail can help calm down the symptoms. However, in some cases, removal of all or part of the affected nail is required.  If an ingrown toenail becomes infected, it is highly suggested that you seek help from a chiropodist who can treat both the infection and the nail itself. 

Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is an Ingrown Toenail? 

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth

• Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area. 

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail. 

Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.