Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment by Nav Sekhon, Foot Specialist in Burlington and Hamilton
Ingrown toenails are one of the most common foot conditions that many people experience. If you’re dealing with painful, swollen toes and suspect you might have an ingrown toenail, you’re not alone. This condition happens when the edge of a toenail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, and potential infection. At Locke Foot Clinic, led by Nav Sekhon, a dedicated foot specialist and chiropodist serving both Burlington and Hamilton, we offer effective solutions and treatments to help you manage and alleviate the discomfort of ingrown toenails.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to irritation and inflammation. This can cause pain, swelling, and sometimes infection if left untreated. While ingrown toenails can occur on any toe, they are most common on the big toe. If you’re experiencing sharp or throbbing pain in your toe, you might be dealing with an ingrown toenail.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails
There are several reasons why ingrown toenails develop. Understanding the causes can help prevent this painful condition from recurring. Common causes of ingrown toenails include:
1. Improper Nail Trimming One of the primary causes of ingrown toenails is improper nail trimming. Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can cause the toenail to grow into the skin. As a chiropodist and foot specialist, I recommend trimming your toenails straight across to prevent this issue.
2. Tight or Ill-Fitting Shoes Wearing shoes that are too tight or have narrow toe boxes can put pressure on your toenails, causing them to grow incorrectly. High heels or shoes that don’t allow enough space for your toes can contribute to ingrown toenails. If you live in Burlington or Hamilton and frequently experience foot pain from footwear, come in to see me, Nav Sekhon, for personalized advice on proper footwear.
3. Trauma or Injury If you’ve recently stubbed your toe or experienced an injury to the nail, the toenail can grow improperly. Repeated trauma can also increase the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails.
4. Genetics Some individuals are more predisposed to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape or structure of their toenails. If your nails are curved or thick, you might be more susceptible to this condition. A consultation with a chiropodist can help identify this risk.
5. Poor Foot Hygiene Not taking proper care of your feet can lead to a variety of foot problems, including ingrown toenails. Keeping your feet clean and dry is essential to preventing infection and inflammation.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
The most common symptom of an ingrown toenail is pain, usually felt around the affected area. The pain can range from mild to severe and is often worse when pressure is applied to the toe. Other common symptoms include:
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Redness and Swelling: The skin around the toenail becomes inflamed and tender to the touch.
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Infection: If left untreated, the area may become infected, leading to pus or fluid build-up.
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Tenderness: The toenail area may feel tender or sore, making it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek advice from a foot specialist. At Locke Foot Clinic in Burlington and Hamilton, we can assess the condition of your toenail and recommend the best treatment options.
How to Treat Ingrown Toenails
While ingrown toenails can often be managed with at-home remedies, severe cases may require the expertise of a foot specialist. As a chiropodist, I recommend the following treatment options depending on the severity of the condition:
1. At-Home Remedies for Mild Ingrown Toenails If you catch the ingrown toenail early, there are some steps you can take at home:
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Soak Your Feet: Soaking your feet in warm, soapy water for 15–20 minutes can help reduce swelling and soften the nail. This can provide temporary relief.
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Lift the Nail: After soaking, gently lift the edge of the toenail that’s growing into the skin. You can place a small piece of cotton or dental floss underneath to prevent the nail from pressing into the skin.
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Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
2. Professional Treatment from a Chiropodist If the ingrown toenail is painful, infected, or recurring, it may require professional treatment from a chiropodist. As a foot specialist based in Burlington and Hamilton, I can provide the following options:
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Partial Nail Removal: If the nail is significantly digging into the skin, I may recommend removing part of the toenail to relieve pressure and allow the area to heal.
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Full Nail Removal: In more severe cases, the entire toenail may need to be removed, especially if the ingrown toenail is a recurring problem.
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Antibiotics: If infection has set in, I may prescribe antibiotics to clear it up before performing any further procedures.
3. Preventing Ingrown Toenails The good news is that ingrown toenails are preventable with proper foot care. Here are a few tips to help you avoid ingrown toenails:
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Trim Nails Properly: Always cut your toenails straight across, avoiding curved edges. Be careful not to cut them too short.
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Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide ample room for your toes to move freely. Avoid tight or ill-fitting shoes that put unnecessary pressure on your toes.
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Practice Good Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet regularly and keep them dry to reduce the risk of infection.
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Consult a Chiropodist Early: If you notice any signs of an ingrown toenail or if you’re at risk for developing one, it’s always best to seek advice from a foot specialist before the problem worsens.
Why Choose Nav Sekhon, Foot Specialist and Chiropodist?
At Locke Foot Clinic, with locations in Burlington and Hamilton, I, Nav Sekhon, treat foot conditions, including ingrown toenails. With years of experience as a foot specialist and chiropodist, I take a personalized approach to care, ensuring you receive the treatment that’s right for you. Whether you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail, heel pain, or any other foot condition, I am here to help you get back on your feet.
If you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail or have questions about your foot health, contact me today to schedule an appointment. I am committed to helping you achieve better foot health and a pain-free lifestyle!