Ingrown Toenails | AAFP

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of the nail digs into the skin of the toe. This happens mostly to the big toenail, but it can happen to any toenail.

What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail?

You may have redness, swelling, and pain on your toe around the edge of the nail (see drawing).

What causes an ingrown toenail?

Many things can cause ingrown toenails. One main cause is wearing shoes that do not fit well. Shoes that are too tight or too small can press the skin of your toe into your toenail. Incorrectly cutting your toenails is another main cause. Toenails that are peeled off at the edge or trimmed down at the corners are more likely to become ingrown. An injury to your toe also can cause an ingrown toenail. People who have deformed or misshaped toenails have a higher risk of ingrown toenails.

How is an ingrown toenail diagnosed?

Your doctor can examine your toe and toenail. If you have an ingrown toenail, your doctor may order treatment. Tell your doctor if you get ingrown toenails often. People who have diabetes are at risk of complications from an ingrown toenail. Also tell your doctor if you are or may be pregnant because some treatments cannot be used during pregnancy.

Can an ingrown toenail be prevented or avoided?

To avoid ingrown toenails, cut your nails straight across. The top of your nail should make a straight line. Do not pick at your nails or tear them at the corners. Wear shoes that fit correctly and allow plenty of room for your toes. Avoid high heels and tight-fitting shoes.

What is the treatment for ingrown toenails?

Mild ingrown toenails can be treated at home. Soak your foot in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes. Dry your foot, then place a twist of cotton under the corner of your nail. You can wet the cotton with water or a disinfectant. This should be changed at least once a day. Try to wear open-toe shoes, such as sandals, that do not rub the toenail. This will help healing and remove chances of irritation. Contact your doctor if your ingrown toenail does not improve or gets worse, including increased pain, swelling, and drainage.

An ingrown toenail may require minor office surgery. The procedure involves removing the part of the nail that is ingrown. Before surgery, the doctor will numb your toe by injecting it with medicine. The doctor will lift your toenail along the edge that is growing into your skin. Then, the doctor will cut and pull out that piece of nail. The doctor may apply a small electrical charge or liquid solution to the exposed part of your nail bed. This is called ablation. It should keep the toenail from growing into your skin again. Not all people need ablation.

Instructions to follow after office surgery for ingrown toenail:

• Soak your foot in warm water each day.

• Keep a bandage over the site until it heals.

• Take acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (brand name: Motrin) as needed for pain.

• Keep the wound clean and dry; you may shower the day after surgery.

• Wear loose fitting shoes or open-toe shoes for the first two weeks.

• Avoid running or strenuous activity for the first two weeks.

• Call your doctor if the toe is not healing.

Living with an ingrown toenail?

Treatment—at home or from your doctor—helps treat symptoms and heal the toe. After the toe heals, practice good foot care to prevent future problems and to keep an ingrown toenail from coming back. If you have surgery, it may take two to four months for your toenail to grow back.

Questions for your doctor

• What is the cause of my ingrown toenail?

• What type of treatment will heal my toenail? Will I need surgery?

• What kind of shoes should I wear?

• Can you show me how to trim my nails?

• What is my risk of ingrown toenail coming back?

Elliott M. Perel, DPM, FACFAS: Podiatrist

Will My Ingrown Toenail Heal on Its Own?: Elliott M. Perel, DPM, FACFAS: Podiatrist

Ingrown toenails can occur on any toe, but they’re most common on the big toe. They develop for one of two reasons:

1. The nail burrows into the surrounding skin
2. The skin grows over the nail, on one side, or both

The end result is a painful, hard, red swelling at the nail’s corner, which may be followed by an infection. You can tell it’s infected if pus oozes out from the cut.

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Elliott Perel and his staff at Monroe Foot & Ankle Care, serving patients in the Monroe Township, New Jersey area, understands that a lot of people don’t think a lot about caring for their feet, and that extends to ingrown toenails. They think if they ignore the problem, the nail will simply heal on its own. Is this really the case? Here’s what our podiatric expert has to say.

How do ingrown toenails develop?

A developing ingrown toenail progresses in three stages:

1. Nail first digs into the tissue, causing pain at the corner of the nail plate, and inflammation and swelling of the toe
2. Inflammation often leads to skin infection, and the toe may leak blood, pus, or both
3. Granulation tissue, new skin that grows over the open infection, perpetuates and worsens the infection

This process may result from a number of different causes:

• Cutting nails below toe edge
• Rounding nail edges instead of cutting straight across
• Wearing tight shoes and/or socks that push the nail into the toe
• Repeatedly stressing your toes, such as playing soccer, running, or doing ballet
• Having genes that predispose you to it

Taking proper care of your feet can prevent nails from becoming ingrown.

Will my ingrown toenail heal on its own?

If you notice your toenail is becoming ingrown, you can start with at-home remedies to see if they’ll prevent an infection. You can:

• Soak toe in warm water and Epsom salts 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day to draw out inflammation
• Wear shoes that let feet breathe and don’t become damp
• Wear shoes with wide toe box
• Don’t wear high heels
• Take OTC pain relievers and anti-inflammatories
• Apply antibiotic cream and cover with bandage

However, if you don’t see an improvement in 2-3 days, or if the toe becomes infected, make an appointment to see Dr. Perel.

Why you may need medical attention

Not all ingrown toenails heal by themselves, even with your best efforts. If your toe is swollen, hurts, has excessive inflammation, and oozes pus, it needs to be treated by a physician.

Dr. Perel may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to address the infection, and he may need to partially or completely remove the nail (nail avulsion). In severe cases, he may also have to remove part of the underlying nail bed and even a part of the growth center.

Surgical nail removal prevents the nail edge from growing inward again and cutting into the adjoining skin. Permanent toenail removal may be required for those with chronic or recurrent, infected ingrown toenails.

The UK National Health Service indicates that partial nail avulsion is 98% successful in preventing future ingrown toenails.

If you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail, you can try at-home remedies, but you’re better served by seeing a professional like Dr. Perel to address all aspects of the problem. To schedule an appointment, call Monroe Foot & Ankle Care at 732-521-6166, or book your visit online.

Why Do I Feel Like There’s a Pebble in My Shoe When Walking?

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If you’re dealing with the unsightly appearance of toenail fungus, you may wonder if it could spread to your fingernails. We’ve got the answer for you here.

The Early Warning Signs of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are more than just a painful nuisance. Proper treatment is necessary to prevent a serious infection. Keep reading to learn the early warning signs so you’ll know when to seek medical help.

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Remedies for ingrown toenail / Laser Doctor Moscow

Under the editorship of a doctor

June 11, 2021

Maria Georgievna Markus

Leading dermatovenereologist, cosmetologist

Clinic:

st. Letnikovskaya d. 4 building 5

An ingrown toenail is an unpleasant condition that almost everyone can experience. Unfortunately, not everyone knows which remedy for an ingrown toenail is most effective. Therefore, we have written this article especially for you. Learn about an ingrown toenail and how to get rid of it.

What is an ingrown nail

An ingrown nail is just the case when the name of the problem speaks for itself: this is the name of a nail that, for one reason or another, has changed the direction of growth. Instead of growing parallel to the skin on the toe, it began to grow into it. By the way, an ingrown toenail has a scientific name – onychocryptosis. Under this pathology, in most cases, they mean an ingrown toenail. Of course, onychocryptosis is possible on the hands and on any finger. However, it is the big toe that most often suffers. But what kind of leg it will be, and on which side of the finger the nail will grow in is equally probable. As well as the gender of the patient and his age.

Stages of onychocryptosis

Ingrown toenails are a gradual process. Doctors distinguish three main stages of ingrown toenails:

1. At the first stage, everything is quite tolerable. The nail plate presses against the skin. The pain is relatively weak, throbbing, the skin on the toe near the ingrown nail is reddened, moderately edematous.

2. The second stage is characterized by an aggravation of the disease: the sharp edge of the nail begins to grow into the tissues of the finger. The pain intensifies, and lymph and blood can ooze from the resulting wound. After an infection (and it is likely to get in), suppuration and inflammation of the tissues begin. The local temperature increases, the edema increases.

3. At the third stage, onychocryptosis passes into the chronic phase. The periungual roller becomes bluish, the tissues thicken, and the finger itself increases in size. Often this leads to the fact that it becomes difficult for a person to move, and sometimes even impossible. Due to the enlarged toe, it is difficult to put on shoes. Inflammation deepens, down to the bone tissue. Running onychocryptosis can lead to the complete removal of the nail plate or even to the amputation of the finger.

The easiest way to cure onychocryptosis in the first stage. Therefore, if redness appears on the toe, which is accompanied by throbbing pain, it is necessary to seek medical help as soon as possible. After the examination, the doctor will be able to choose the best remedies for an ingrown toenail.

Causes of ingrown nails

If you know the reasons why the nail grows into the skin of the finger, then you can at least reduce the risk of onychocryptosis.

One of the most common causes of an ingrown toenail is wearing uncomfortable, tight or smaller shoes. The fact is that such shoes squeeze the foot and toes, and this can lead to a curvature of the nail. The second most common cause is an improperly done pedicure. For example, if the nail is cut too much – almost “under the root”. This encourages the nail to grow into the skin. Just like cutting off the corners of the nail. In general, it is better to entrust nail care to professionals. A third common cause is injury to the foot or toe. This is due to the fact that with such an injury, the nail is often damaged and / or bent.

Other reasons for an ingrown toenail:

• Diseases. In general, almost any disease negatively affects the body as a whole. Also, due to diseases, the nutrition of the nails can be disrupted, which in some cases leads to its curvature or thickening. A fungus can also lead to thickening. Skin diseases, on the other hand, affect the condition of the skin, which can also ultimately lead to ingrown nails.

• Flat feet contributes to the curvature of not only the foot, but also the nails.

• Excess weight. This leads to increased stress on the legs, which can also lead to an ingrown nail. This also includes pregnancy.

• Conducted radiation or chemotherapy.

Ingrown toenail treatment

Today, doctors can offer several methods of getting rid of onychocryptosis at once: from the most gentle to radical surgical intervention. We will talk about the most common methods.

Surgery

It is often carried out in cases where other methods do not allow getting rid of onychocryptosis. To reduce pain, the tissues are anesthetized with a local anesthetic. In advanced cases, the nail plate is removed completely. After surgical removal, the risk of recurrence is especially high. Sometimes, to prevent it, skin particles on the sides are removed.

Using special brackets

After a visit to a podologist, a special bracket is selected for the nail, which is attached to the nail plate and changes the direction of its growth. This method is considered one of the most gentle. However, it is used only at the first stage, when the edge of the nail plate can be reached. Staples can be universal or made to order. At the same time, they must be periodically changed or tightened as the nail grows.

Capoline use

Kapoline is a tampon made of non-woven material, which is impregnated with a special solution that has disinfectant properties. The edge of the nail plate is lifted, after which capolin is installed under it. Thus, it fixes the nail plate and disinfects the tissues under it. Capolin needs to be changed every day. After some time (depending on the neglect of the problem), the problematic corner can be cut off. This procedure is carried out at the initial stages of the disease or as a preventive measure.

Folk recipes

Most of these methods are aimed at softening the nail for its further correction. Some of them involve the use of products with antiseptic properties. This will help to avoid complications and even stop suppuration. However, these recipes are recommended to be used only as a prophylaxis or for disinfection. But getting rid of an ingrown nail is more expedient in the doctor’s office.

So what can you do yourself at home while you are going to the doctor?

Trays

Probably the easiest and most affordable way. Sea salt, soda or potassium permanganate are dissolved in warm water, after which the legs are lowered into them for a while. Such baths should be taken regularly several times a week. They soften the nail, after which it will be easier to remove.

Compress

First, a solution is prepared from 20 parts of water, 10 – dimexide, 2 – analgin, 1 – dexamethasone. The resulting therapeutic solution is moistened with a swab, which is applied to the affected finger at night. So that he does not fall off at night, he is bandaged, and a clean sock is put on top. Such a compress must be done within 3-4 nights.

In addition, various ointments are used: Vishnevsky, Ichthyol, Uroderm, etc.

Laser removal

Many experts believe that the laser is one of the most effective remedies for ingrown toenails. This procedure is carried out using a special carbon dioxide laser. During the session, the beam “evaporates” the ingrown part of the nail plate. In addition, tissues in the problem area are immediately disinfected and vessels are coagulated, which helps to avoid or minimize bleeding. Laser removal does not take much time: its average duration is about one hour.

Before the laser procedure, you will need to visit a doctor to get a brief consultation about the session. In addition, the specialist will also conduct a survey and examination to set up the laser device and identify contraindications for the session.

Contraindications for laser removal of an ingrown nail are:

1. Allergy to anesthetic drugs.

2. Diseases of the skin.

3. Problems with blood clotting.

4. Systemic pathologies of soft tissues.

5. The second type of diabetes mellitus.

Also at the consultation it will be necessary to tell about your acute and chronic diseases.

After the doctor finishes removing the ingrown toenail, you will receive recommendations for the next period.

What are the benefits of laser ingrown toenail removal

Experts recommend laser removal, as it has several advantages:

1. In most cases, an ingrown toenail, even at the third stage, can be eliminated in just one session.

2. Modern anesthetics make the procedure as comfortable as possible.

3. After the procedure, physical activity is preserved. In fact, you can lead a normal life with minor restrictions (refusal to visit the pool or bath).

4. There is no bleeding during the procedure (or it is minimal).

5. The laser beam immediately disinfects the surrounding tissues, which reduces the risk of infection to zero.

6. The duration of the procedure in most cases does not exceed one hour.

7. Laser removal has a minimum of contraindications.

Removal of an ingrown nail at the Laser Doctor clinic

In our clinic, you can not only get professional advice from a doctor, but also sign up for laser removal of an ingrown nail. The procedure is carried out with a carbon dioxide laser device “Lancet”. And all the specialists conducting the procedure have a higher medical education. You can sign up by phone or using a special electronic form on this site.

How to cure an ingrown toenail: treatments, indications and benefits

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• How to Cure an Ingrown Toenail: Treatments, Indications and Benefits

Ingrown nail is a fairly common pathology of the nail plate. It is a source of inconvenience and pain. In fact, this is the ingrowth of the lateral part of the nail into the soft tissues of the finger. The deeper the nail penetrates, the more the side ridges are injured. Gradually inflammation develops. The finger swells, puffiness (swelling) and redness appear. As with any suppurative process, pain occurs. When walking, it intensifies, which is reflected in the gait. Naturally, a “drummed” inflamed finger gives a lot of inconvenience to their owners. A podiatrist will help you get rid of this problem. If you ignore it and do not treat an ingrown nail, then complications will appear over time: from deep purulent wounds with the subsequent formation of an ugly scar to the irretrievable loss of part of the nail plate.

Ingrown toenail causes

They are divided into internal and external.

Internal causes of ingrown nail

• Mycosis of the foot. This is a fungal infection of the skin and nails.
• Hyperkeratosis of the foot. It is an overgrowth of the keratinized layer of the skin and its appendages (nails). This is not an independent disease, due to foot fungus.
• Diabetes mellitus. This pathology is characterized by frequent inflammatory diseases and violations of the structure of the skin, hair, nails.
• Damage to the joints of the foot (arthritis, arthrosis).
• Psoriasis.
• Hyperhidrosis of the feet (excessive sweating).
• Varicose disease of the lower extremities. Often leads to swelling of the legs. The lateral ridges of the toes increase, the nails “dig into” them. Over time, inflammation develops.
• Overweight. The mechanism of development of an ingrown nail is similar to the situation with varicose veins. This also includes weight gain during pregnancy.
• Hereditary predisposition.

External causes of ingrown nails

• Poor quality of pedicure services. Incorrect design of the free edge of the nail often leads to its ingrowth. Very short cut nails (“under the meat”) also contribute to their abnormal growth in the future.
• Incorrectly fitted shoes. Too narrow shoes will put pressure on the toes, which contributes to the “biting” of the nail into the side ridges.
• Professional and amateur sports. There are two main reasons here. The first is a large load on the foot and on its fingers, as well as their possible injuries. The second is shared showers, where you can “pick up” nail fungus.
• Trauma or resection of the nail for various reasons.

Ingrown nail treatment

The whole process of ingrown nail formation has 3 conditional stages. It is from them that the tactics of treatment will depend.

During the first, redness and swelling of the finger is noted, pain occurs only when pressing on the lateral roller or when walking. During this period, you can cure an ingrown nail with the help of hardware manicure and gentle foot care. It will take a lot of patience – the process of setting the nail plate is long, but effective.

The second stage is characterized by the addition of an infection. The soft tissues of the finger are injured by the nail plate more and more, sooner or later bacteria or fungi will get into the wound.

In the third stage, the inflammation becomes chronic. An ingrown toenail thickens and can ossify over time.

The main approach in the treatment of ingrown toenails is surgical. It is used in the second and third stages of the process. During the operation, a part of the nail is removed that “bites” into the finger. The free edge is adjusted. The doctor puts stitches, after which he explains the rules for caring for the postoperative wound and feet in general.

Alternative treatments for ingrown toenails

Surgery is always a fear. This is a serious procedure and not everyone is ready to take such a step. In such cases, modern medicine offers alternative treatments for ingrown toenails. One of them is the installation of corrective brackets or plates. It is fixed on the nail. With the help of special springs, the structure is gradually straightened. Together with the plate (bracket), the nail plate is also straightened. This is a more gentle and convenient technique.

Specialists

Plankova Tatyana Konstantinovna

Specialist in pedicure, podologist, dermatologist

Experience in medical practice – 20 years

Specialization

Under ology, medical apparatus pedicure, treatment of ingrown nails, nail fungus.
Advanced training

Certified specialist in reflexology massage, orthonyxia, golden plate, nail prosthetics.
Regular participant

Refresher courses in Russia and Europe.

Belova Elena Andreevna

Cosmetologist, dermatologist

Experience in medical practice – 8 years face and body, prescribing supportive care and home care .
Advanced training
Cosmetology, dermatovenereology
Regular participant
Russian and foreign congresses for doctors

Raevskaya Svetlana Valerievna

Podiatrist-esthetician

Work experience – 5 years

9 0004 Specialization

Podology, medical apparatus pedicure and manicure, treatment of onychomycosis, onychogryphosis, onycholysis.
Advanced training Podology plus course according to the Dieter Baumann method, courses in the areas of “Treatment of ingrown nails”, “Treatment of warts”, “Correction system “titanium thread”.
Regular participant
Master classes and seminars for long periods.

Danilkova Oksana Igorevna

Head doctor, cosmetologist, dermatologist.

Medical practice experience 25 years.

Specialization
Injection procedures, laser procedures, copyright anti-age programs

Advanced training
Cosmetology, dermatovenereology, ophthalmology

9014 5 Regular member
Russian and international conferences.

• Graduated from Medical College No. 5 with a degree in Nursing (Diploma No. 1177040092316).
• Graduated from the First Institute of Aesthetics, professional retraining of medical workers with a specialization in Nursing in cosmetology – 288 hours (Diploma No.