Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be treated to stop pain

by Dr. Brian Richman Podiatrist

Our feet deserve respect for all the work they do. Most people will have some kind of foot problem during their life, including ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails are very painful and are often caused by a congenital deformity. Ingrown toenails can happen at any age from infancy to the senior years.

Incurvated or curved toenails grow into the flesh or pulp of the toe, causing extreme pain and pressure. An ingrown toenail begins as an irritation to the skin around the nail with pain and redness. The ingrown toenail acts as a foreign body producing pain, redness, drainage and swelling. Toenails have a high concentration of bacteria which can lead to infection when ingrown, ingrown toenails usually occur in the borders of both hallux toenails ( big toes ), but can occur in any toes.

Ingrowing of the toenail can occur at the distal end ( tip of the toenail ), or at the proximal end ( base of the toenail ). A hook or nail spicule are often present in ingrown toenails. Improper trimming of toenails can cause a painful ingrown toenail. Shoes can also aggravate the problem. Tapered shoes force a lot of pressure on the nail.

Many people are tempted to try bathroom surgery on an ingrown toenail. This often compounds the problem. Professional treatment is generally simple and effective. Defining where the ingrowing occurs and how much infection is present will determine which therapy is the best.

Temporary relief can be obtained by removing the offending nail border, foot soaks and antibiotics. Permanent correction includes removing the offending toenail, and destroying the nail matrix ( the toenail origin ) by chemical or surgical means.

Dr. Brian Richman is a podiatrist specializing in diabetic foot care, ankle surgery, biomechanics and sports medicine. He is in private practice with an office in Layton and Logan, Utah. He will be happy to answer questions. Call him at 801-825-4709