Ingrown toenails are common and seem to randomly appear, but there are triggers that cause this uncomfortable condition. Wearing the wrong shoes is one of the triggers that may cause ingrown toenails. Shoes that are too tight around the toe area put pressure on the front of your foot and push your toes inward. High heels are a prime example of narrow-toed shoes that can cause foot complications. Running or similar physical activities also put you at a higher risk for ingrown toenails, because there is repetitive pressure being applied to the toenail. Wearing the right shoes while participating in these activities will lessen the likelihood of an ingrown nail. Shoes with a wide toe box paired with socks that don’t constrict the foot are the best option for physical activities. If you have an ingrown toenail and are concerned about it, then it is recommended you speak with a podiatrist to properly treat it.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.