"...to provide quality foot care in the most gentle manner possible..."
Please feel free to read our free newsletter from the American Podiatric Medical Association. Click here to download Acrobat if you are unable to view.
INGROWN TOENAILS
The information provided by Visual Media Concepts, Inc. website, products, and services is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as professional advice on any subject matter. Information is supplied upon the condition that the persons receiving same will make their own determination as to its suitability for their purposes prior to use. In no event will Visual Media Concepts, Inc. be responsible for damages of any nature whatsoever resulting from the use of or reliance upon information from the products or websites which the information refers. The content of this product and website contains general information. Visual Media Concepts, Inc. expressly disclaims all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any and all of the contents of our products and website.
Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, is usually caused by trimming toenails too short, particularly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (from shoes that are too tight or short), injury, fungus infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails occur when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, often causing infection. A common ailment, ingrown toenails can be painful. Ingrown toenails start out hard, swollen, and tender. Left untreated, they may become sore, red, and infected and the skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.
In most cases, treating ingrown toenails is simple: soak the foot in warm, soapy water several times each day. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In severe cases, if an acute infection occurs, surgical removal of part of the ingrown toenail may be needed. Known as partial nail plate avulsion, the procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.
Ingrown toenails can be prevented by:
- Trimming toenails straight across with no rounded corners.
- Ensuring that shoes and socks are not too tight.
- Keeping feet clean at all times.