Ouch! Ingrown toenails are painful!
Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of your nails grow into the skin next to the nail. Your big toes are the most likely to become ingrown.
There are many reasons for toenails becoming ingrown:
- cutting toenails incorrectly
- irregular/curved nails
- badly fitting footwear that places pressure on toes
- injury to toenail – stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot
- improper foot hygiene
- genetics
- certain sporting activities – repetitive movements can place pressure on toenails e.g ballet, football, soccer
Your podiatrist is one of the first person to see if you are suffering from ingrown toenails. Your podiatrist is able to provide some relief and strategies to combat ingrown toenails. They are also trained in toenail surgery under local anaesthetic. If your nail is infected a visit to your doctor for antibiotics may be recommended.
Correctly fitting shoes enable toes to move independently without rubbing against each other.
