Ingrown toenail is a common condition where the toenail is curved or grows into the surrounding skin fold. This growth often leads to pain and infection of the soft tissue. It most commonly affects one or both sides of the big toes, but can occur in the small toes as well. It is estimated that 20% of patients presenting to a family doctor’s office with a foot problem have an ingrown toenail.1
Common Causes:
- Heredity – In many cases, ingrown toenails are inherited.
- Trauma or injury – Injuries such as stubbing your toe, an object falling onto the toe, or activities of repeated pressure (ie. kicking or running) are the most common injuries.
- Improper nail trimming – Cutting too deep or too short encourages the surrounding skin to fold over the nail. This is a common cause of ingrown nails in children and adolescents.
- Inappropriate or tight shoes – Narrow-fitting shoes can cause to excessive pressure on the sides of the toes that can encourage ingrown nail development.
- Side effect of medications – Certain medications such as oral anti-fungal medications are known to cause ingrown toenails.2
Treatment
Treatment for ingrown toenails should be done as soon as it is recognized, before the infection begins. For people with diabetes, nerve damage to the foot, or poor circulation in the foot, it is strongly recommended to seek chiropody/foot care immediately.
After examining the toe, your chiropodist will select the treatment best suited for you. Conservative management include proper trimming the problematic border, daily water soaks, and topical antibiotics. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection is present.
The Onyfix® Nail Correction System can be used to correct the nail shape while following the physiological growth of the nail.
Ingrown toenail surgery may be recommended in recurrent or severe cases. Special considerations for nail surgeries include people with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, coagulopathy, and overt bacterial infection.
Did you know?
You don’t need a doctor’s referral to seek chiropody/foot treatment. Request your appointment today!
References
- Reyzelman AM, Trombello KA, Vayser DJ, Armstrong DG, Harkless LB. Are antibiotics necessary in the treatment of locally infected ingrown toenails? Arch Fam Med. 2000;9(9): 930-932.
- DeLauro NM, DeLauro TM. Onychogryptosis. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2004; 21: 617-30.