What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail is due to the penetration of the edges of the nail plate into the soft tissue of the toe. Ingrown toenails begin with a painful irritation that often becomes infected. The nail margin becomes red and swollen, often demonstrating drainage of pus.

How do ingrown toenails form?

There are several causes of ingrown toenails: a hereditary tendency to form ingrown toenails, improperly cutting the toenails too short or cutting into the side of the nail, as well as improper shoes.

What treatments are recommended for ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails may be treated with soaking instructions (please see our soaking instructions under the patient resources tab). If soaking does not work, non-invasive treatment in the form of a nail avulsion may take place. This takes place when the nail margin is removed and the root in the nail border is destroyed. A new nail will grow out to replace it over several months. With this removal of the nail margin, the nail will be narrower, and this should be expected.

How to prevent ingrown toenails?

To prevent ingrown toenails it is recommended to wear properly fitted shoes and to trim the toenails straight across and not too short.

Source: Podiatry Network, http://podiatrynetwork.com/?p=911