Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are usually caused by improper trimming of the nails, most commonly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (shoes that are too tight or too small), injury, fungal infections, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail presses into the flesh causing pain, redness, swelling, and possibly infection. Left untreated, the skin can grow over the toenail worsening the infection. All methods of treating the ingrown toenail begin with removal of the edge of the toenail that presses into the skin. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. A portion of the ingrown toenail may need to be removed surgically to prevent recurring problems and/or infection.
Ingrown toenails can be prevented by trimming toenails straight across and using an emery board to file the corners. It is important that the shoes and socks are not tight and that the foot is kept clean at all times.