Ingrown Toenails and How to Prevent Them

An ingrown toenail is a common problem where the toenail grows into the toe. Any of your toenails can become ingrown. Many things can cause ingrown toenails to develop, including an injury, wearing narrow shoes, and badly cut toenails. Left untreated, ingrown toenails can become infected. Podiatry Services of CNY, PC in North Syracuse, NY offers full-service, state-of-the-art podiatric care to the patients they serve. Read on to learn more about ingrown toenails and how to prevent them.
 

About Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown nail is caused by the pressure from the ingrowth of the nail edge into the skin of the toe. The result is pain, swelling, and redness. Ingrown toenails can be caused by shoes that are too narrow in the toe area. Pressure from ill-fitting footwear causes the toenails to grow abnormally. Some conditions, such as arthritis or a fungal infection, can cause toenails to thicken and grow abnormally. Ingrown nails can also result from an injury to the toe.
 

How to Prevent Ingrown Nails

Many cases of ingrown nails can be prevented by cutting your nails the right way. Always trim your toenails straight across using nail clippers, and don’t cut them too short. Short toenails have a tendency to become ingrown. Using an emery board to give your nails a slight curve. Avoid ill-fitting shoes and wear comfortable socks. If you love manicures and pedicures, make sure you go to an experienced nail technician. Manicures and pedicures can cause ingrown nails if the technician is overly aggressive in cutting back the nails.
 

When to Visit a Podiatrist

If a short trial of at-home treatment has not resulted in improvement of your condition, see your podiatrist. You should always see a podiatrist if your ingrown toenails are causing you pain or you think you may have an infection. If you have diabetes or poor circulation, you should see a podiatrist immediately at the first signs of an ingrown toenail, as it can lead to serious complications.

Conquer pain and regain your active life! Call one Podiatry Services of CNY, PC's offices to make an appointment- North Syracuse, NY (315) 458-1777. Our treatments will help you feel better, move better, and relieve your pain.