Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can develop for many reasons. In some cases the condition is congenital, such as toenails that simply are too large. People who have curling toes, either from genetics or diseases like arthritis, are also prone to ingrown toenails. Often trauma, like stubbing a toe or having a toe stepped on, can cause a piece of the nail to be jammed into the skin. Repeated trauma, such as the pounding to which runners typically subject their feet, also can cause ingrown nails. Not taking care of your toenails could result in ingrown toenails. Prevention of ingrown toenails is the key. The most common cause is cutting your toenails incorrectly, causing them to re-grow into the skin. Tight hosiery or shoes with narrow toe boxes can only make matters worse. If the skin is red, painful or swollen on the sides of the nail, an infection may be present. This occurs because the ingrown nail is often in a warm, moist and bacteria-rich environment. When the nail penetrates the skin, it provides a convenient entry point for germs that can cause infection. Untreated, the nail can go under the skin, causing a more severe infection. In either case, your doctor can provide treatment for the infection via the use of sterile instruments and antibiotics.