Onychocryptosis, or ingrown toenails, is a foot condition where the nail cuts into the flesh of the toe, either at the sides or corners of the nail. If you need to ask questions or think you have onychocryptosis, Cascade Foot Center in Salem, OR can assist you. You can talk to our podiatry specialists who will clarify your condition and the available treatment options.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
- Do not cut toenails too short or round the corners of the nail; this will make the toenail start growing into your skin.
- High heels or excessively tight shoes will limit the space for your toes. This applies pressure to the toenails, forcing them to grow inward.
- Any time you have trauma to the feet, such as stubbing your toe, it can change the direction of growth.
- Some people face a genetic risk of ingrown toenails because of the inherited structure of the nails and their curvature.
- A failure to wash and dry the feet or keep them free of cuts can cause infections that will increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
- The skin around the ingrown toenail may become tender and red. It may also be swollen and hot due to the nail cutting into the tissue.
- There may be oozing pus if there is an infection in the nail bed.
- There might be bleeding around the nail.
Treatments for Ingrown Toenails
- If a toe becomes infected, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to get rid of the infection.
- If the nail is slightly ingrown, a doctor may remove the edge and put a splint underneath the nail. This raises the toenail and prevents it from growing into the skin.
- In more severe cases, they may remove some or all of the nail to ensure that it cannot grow back into the skin.
Preventive Measures
- You should trim the toenails straight across and not cut them too close to the skin.
- It is vital to keep your feet clean and ensure they are dry to avoid infections or other complications.
- To help prevent ingrown toenails, select shoes that do not pinch or bind the toes.
If you’re concerned about ingrown toenails, the podiatrists at Cascade Foot Center in Salem, OR would like to hear from you. Please call (503) 588-8188 today.