Ingrown Toe Nails

Ingrown Toe Nails, scientifically known as onychocryptosis, are a common and painful condition that occur when shin of one or both sides of a nail grows over the edges of the nail or when the nail itself grows into the skin. This condition is usually very painful and can become infected. Some people suffer chronic or repeated episodes of irritation, redness, uncomfortable sensations of inflammation as well as severe swelling and pain of the area affected. Others suffer only now and then however, symptoms can be the same if not more severe. Ingrown Toe Nails are most common on but not limited to the big toe.

There are many causes of Ingrown Toe Nails. The most common cause is incorrect cutting of the nail causing them to re-grow in to the skin. Keep the corners of the toe nails cut square. Avoid rounding or cutting deep into the corners of the toe nails. Trauma like stubbing a toe or any type of injury to a toe can cause a piece of the nail to be gammed into the skin causing an ingrown nail problem. Trauma caused by a repeated behavior such as running or other sports can also cause this condition. Tight hosiery or shoes with a narrow toe box can be another cause as well as a reason for the condition to worsen. Conditions such as Overlapping Toes, Hammer toes and Claw Toes, as well as Bunions and Bunionettes can be reasons for Ingrown Toe Nails due to the deformities these conditions create.

Ingrown Toe Nails should be treated as soon as they are recognized. In many cases, people with uninfected ingrown nails can obtain relief by clearing the area of overgrown skin using sterile cuticle scissors or nippers, warm salt water soaks, applying mild antiseptic solution to the area and keeping it protected from germs with the use of a clean bandage. Avoid tight hosiery and footwear, excessive activity during the healing process, and keep on guard for signs of infection. Signs of infection are severe pain, excessive inflammation, swelling, or discharge in the area. If this occurs the ingrown nail must seek treated by a physician to avoid more serious complications.

Prevention of ingrown toe nails starts with the proper cutting and grooming of the nail and surrounding area. Avoid hosiery and footwear that are too tight and can create pressure on the toes. Feet are constantly changing as we age. Have your fit checked regularly and remember the size on the measuring device is only a reference. Mass manufactured shoes are NOT all created equal. Refer to the Shoe Fitting Reference Guide for proper guidelines on how to best fit your shoes. Shoes that fit correctly coupled with an ezWalker™ can be one of the best ways to treat and avoid ingrown toe nails.

If you are following these guidelines and the problem of Ingrown Toe Nails persists, you must seek the council of a physician for diagnosis and treatment.