At AAL Podiatry in Norfolk and Suffolk, VA, Dr. Jesse Anderson and the rest of our care team are here to help with all of your foot and ankle health needs. Here, we'll take a look at everything you need to know about ingrown toenails.
What are ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails are a common yet painful condition in which the side of a toenail grows into the skin tissue that surrounds the nail. Most commonly found on the big toe, ingrown toenails cause inflamed, swollen skin that can become painful. Sometimes, ingrown toenails develop infections.
What causes ingrown toenails?
There are several contributing factors to ingrown toenails, including:
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Nail infections
- Injury to the toenail
- Cutting toenails too short
- Cutting toenails on a curve (instead of straight across)
- Wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe box
- Having very curved toenails
How are ingrown toenails treated?
When you come into the office for ingrown toenail treatment, there are a few different options. If your nail is only slightly ingrown, we can lift the edge of the nail carefully and place cotton underneath it. This can stop the nail from continuing to grow into the skin. We may also tape the nail. If necessary, we'll numb the toe and partially remove some of the nail so that you can get relief as you heal. In more serious cases, we may recommend surgery that removes the nail completely.
What can be done to prevent ingrown toenails?
To prevent ingrown toenails from developing in the future, trim your toenails regularly—but not too often. Your toenails should be even with the tips of your toes. You'll also want to trim your toenails straight across, without rounding the corners of the nail. Wearing protective footwear and wearing properly fitting shoes can also help prevent ingrown toenails.
Get Ingrown Toenail Treatment at AAL Podiatry in Norfolk and Suffolk, VA
If you're dealing with foot or ankle pain, our team can get you back to feeling your best. Call Dr. Anderson and the rest of the AAL Podiatry team in Norfolk (757-625-2962) or Suffolk (757-539-2098) to learn more about our practice and schedule your first appointment.