Ingrown Toenails: Signs, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

An ingrown toenail is one of those common foot problems that can start as an annoyance but can quickly worsen if it is not treated correctly, potentially leading to severe pain and other complications. Learn more about ingrown toenails by reading below and by getting in contact with Dr. Richard Lee and Dr. Steven Lin of Alexandria Family Podiatry in Alexandria and Sterling, VA.

Signs

As the name suggests, an ingrown toenail occurs when the nail grows into the adjacent skin. It can be painful if you put pressure on the area and as the nail digs into the skin when you walk. The site can become infected and can cause bleeding, swelling, redness, oozing pus, and growth of skin around the toe.

Causes

The condition can be caused by trimming the toenails incorrectly, wearing shoes that bunch up your toes, a toenail injury, and improper foot hygiene. You can also be genetically predisposed to the condition, which can put you at greater risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Treatment

It's not recommended that you attempt to free the nail on your own if you already notice signs of infection, if it's already painful, or if you suffer from diabetes. But if these don't apply and the tonail hasn't yet pierced the skin you may be able to carefully cut the part that's coming into contact with your skin, although it's possible that the problem will resurface.

If the toenail can't be treated at home your best resource is your podiatrist who can perform either a partial or a complete nail removal, depending on how severe your problem is.

Prevention

Whether or not you've already had an ingrown toenail in the past or are simply trying to avoid the condition, you can visit your podiatrist so they can guide you to the best practices when cutting your toenails to prevent the nail from growing into the skin. It's also important to wear shoes that allow your toes movement, to wear protective shoes if you work in an industrial setting, and to wash and dry your feet regularly.

Ingrown Toenails Treatment in Alexandria and Sterling, VA

If you struggle with ingrown toenails and are in need of treatment you can schedule a consultation in Alexandria and Sterling, VA, with Dr. Lee and Dr. Lin of Alexandria Family Podiatry by dialing (703) 823-2357 for the Alexandria, or Sterling, VA, office.