The toe that is most likely to develop an ingrown toenail is the big toe. An ingrown toenail is defined as the corner of the nail growing into the surrounding skin, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. It may happen as a result of wearing shoes that do not provide enough room for the toes to move freely in, or from trimming the toenails too short and incorrectly. Some people are born with irregular or curved toenails, and this may increase the probability of developing an ingrown toenail. Common symptoms that are often associated with this condition can include red and tender skin surrounding the affected nail, and fluid may drain from the area. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment options.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein of Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. 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 one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.