How common are ingrown toenails. What are the main causes of ingrown toenails. Can ingrown toenails be treated at home. When should you see a doctor for an ingrown toenail. What are the best prevention methods for ingrown toenails.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails: A Common Foot Ailment

Ingrown toenails are a prevalent foot condition that affects people of all ages, but they are particularly common among adolescents and young adults. This painful condition occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most often affecting the big toe. While ingrown toenails can be uncomfortable and sometimes lead to infection, they are generally treatable with proper care and attention.

Prevalence of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are more common than many people realize. They frequently affect teenagers and young adults due to increased perspiration, which can soften the nail fold and make it more susceptible to nail penetration. Additionally, older adults may be at higher risk due to vision impairments and reduced mobility, which can make proper nail care challenging.

Identifying the Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and early intervention:

• Improper footwear: Tight shoes or narrow toe boxes can put pressure on the toenails
• Incorrect nail trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges
• Excessive sweating: Softens the nail bed, making it easier for nails to penetrate the skin
• Toe injuries: Stubbing the toe or dropping objects on the foot
• Sports activities: Repetitive motions in sports like running or soccer
• Nail disorders: Fungal infections or trauma-induced nail loss
• Genetic predisposition: Some individuals inherit a tendency for ingrown toenails

Do certain activities increase the risk of ingrown toenails? Yes, activities that involve repetitive pressure on the toes, such as long-distance running or frequent kicking in sports like soccer, can increase the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Identifying an ingrown toenail early can help prevent complications and facilitate faster treatment. Common symptoms include:

1. Redness around the toenail
2. Pain or tenderness along the nail edges
3. Swelling of the skin adjacent to the nail
4. Fluid buildup around the affected area
5. Pain when applying pressure to the toe

Is pain always present with an ingrown toenail? While pain is a common symptom, the severity can vary. Some individuals may experience only mild discomfort, while others might have severe pain, especially if an infection develops.

Signs of Infection

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to infection. Watch for these signs:

• Increased redness and swelling
• Warmth in the affected area
• Pus discharge
• Bleeding
• Overgrowth of skin around the nail

Effective Home Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

Many cases of ingrown toenails can be successfully treated at home. Here are some effective methods:

1. Soak the affected foot in warm water 3-4 times daily
2. Keep the foot clean and dry between soakings
3. Wear comfortable, roomy shoes or sandals
4. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
5. Gently massage the side of the nail fold to reduce swelling

Can Epsom salt help with ingrown toenails? Yes, adding Epsom salt to warm water soaks can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. The magnesium sulfate in Epsom salt has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the affected area.

What to Avoid During Home Treatment

While treating an ingrown toenail at home, it’s important to avoid certain practices that can worsen the condition:

• Do not cut a notch in the nail
• Avoid repeatedly trimming nail borders
• Don’t place cotton under the nail
• Steer clear of over-the-counter ingrown toenail medications

When to Seek Professional Medical Care

While many ingrown toenails can be treated at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention:

• No improvement after 2-3 days of home treatment
• Signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, or pus)
• Underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation
• Recurring ingrown toenails

How do doctors treat severe ingrown toenails? For severe or recurring cases, doctors may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part of the nail’s side border. This is typically done under local anesthesia and can provide long-term relief.

Preventing Future Ingrown Toenails

Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of developing ingrown toenails:

1. Trim toenails straight across, not too short or rounded at the edges
2. Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
3. Keep feet clean and dry
4. Wear protective footwear during sports activities
5. Manage underlying conditions like fungal infections

Is there a correct way to trim toenails to prevent ingrown nails? Yes, always cut toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. The nail should be even with the tip of the toe, and the corners should not be rounded off.

Understanding the Recovery Process

The recovery time for an ingrown toenail can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment method used. For mild cases treated at home, relief may be felt within a few days to a week. However, if surgical intervention is required, the recovery process may take longer.

Post-Surgical Care

If you undergo a partial nail removal procedure, your doctor will provide specific aftercare instructions, which may include:

• Keeping the foot elevated for the first day or two
• Wearing loose-fitting shoes or sandals for a few weeks
• Avoiding strenuous activities that put pressure on the toe
• Regularly cleaning the area and changing bandages as directed

How long does it take for a toenail to regrow after partial removal? The regrowth process can take several months. During this time, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s care instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent recurrence.

The Impact of Ingrown Toenails on Daily Life

While often considered a minor ailment, ingrown toenails can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. The pain and discomfort can affect:

1. Mobility and ability to exercise
2. Choice of footwear
3. Participation in sports and physical activities
4. Overall foot health and hygiene

Can ingrown toenails affect your gait or posture? Yes, the pain from an ingrown toenail can cause you to alter your walking pattern to avoid pressure on the affected toe. This compensatory gait can potentially lead to other foot, ankle, or knee problems if left unchecked for an extended period.

Psychological Effects

The persistent discomfort of an ingrown toenail can also have psychological impacts, including:

• Increased stress and irritability
• Decreased confidence in physical appearance
• Anxiety about participating in activities that might exacerbate the condition

Special Considerations for At-Risk Groups

Certain populations may be at higher risk for complications from ingrown toenails and require special attention:

Diabetic Patients

People with diabetes are at increased risk for foot complications due to potential nerve damage and poor circulation. For diabetics, even a minor foot issue like an ingrown toenail can lead to serious problems if not addressed promptly.

Why are ingrown toenails more dangerous for diabetics? Diabetics often have reduced sensation in their feet, which can make it difficult to detect an ingrown toenail early. Additionally, poor circulation can impair healing and increase the risk of infection.

Athletes

Athletes, particularly those involved in running or kicking sports, are more prone to developing ingrown toenails due to repetitive trauma to the toes. They should pay extra attention to their foot care routine and choose appropriate athletic footwear.

Elderly Individuals

Older adults may face challenges in maintaining proper foot care due to reduced flexibility or vision problems. They may benefit from regular podiatric check-ups and assistance with nail trimming.

Innovations in Ingrown Toenail Treatment

While traditional treatments remain effective, new approaches are being developed to address ingrown toenails:

• Laser treatments to remove part of the nail matrix
• Advanced antimicrobial dressings for infected ingrown toenails
• Customized orthotic devices to alleviate pressure on affected toes

Are there any new non-surgical treatments for chronic ingrown toenails? Research is ongoing into topical treatments that can soften the nail and reduce its tendency to grow into the surrounding skin. However, these are still in developmental stages and not widely available.

The Role of Podiatrists

Podiatrists play a crucial role in managing complex or recurring ingrown toenail cases. They can provide:

1. Expert diagnosis and treatment planning
2. Specialized surgical procedures when necessary
3. Guidance on proper foot care and prevention strategies
4. Management of associated foot conditions

Dispelling Myths About Ingrown Toenails

There are several misconceptions about ingrown toenails that can lead to improper care or delayed treatment:

Myth: Cutting a V-shape in the nail will cure an ingrown toenail

Fact: This popular home remedy is ineffective and can actually worsen the condition by encouraging the nail to grow inward.

Myth: Ingrown toenails always require surgery

Fact: Many cases can be successfully treated with conservative home care methods.

Myth: Tight shoes are the only cause of ingrown toenails

Fact: While tight shoes are a common factor, genetics, improper nail trimming, and injuries also play significant roles.

Can ingrown toenails be a sign of other health issues? While ingrown toenails themselves are not typically indicative of other health problems, recurring ingrown toenails or those that don’t heal properly could be signs of underlying conditions like diabetes or peripheral artery disease.

The Economic Impact of Ingrown Toenails

Although often viewed as a minor health issue, ingrown toenails can have a significant economic impact:

• Direct medical costs for treatment and procedures
• Lost productivity due to pain and mobility issues
• Expenses related to specialized footwear or orthotic devices

How much does professional treatment for an ingrown toenail typically cost? The cost can vary widely depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment required. Simple in-office procedures might cost between $100 to $500, while more complex surgical interventions could be significantly more expensive, especially if performed in a hospital setting.

Insurance Coverage

Many health insurance plans cover treatment for ingrown toenails, especially if they are causing significant pain or have become infected. However, coverage can vary, and some plans may consider certain treatments elective.

Future Research and Developments

The field of podiatry continues to evolve, with ongoing research into improved treatments and prevention strategies for ingrown toenails:

1. Development of new nail-growth inhibiting medications
2. Advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques
3. Improved understanding of genetic factors contributing to ingrown toenails
4. Research into biomechanics and shoe design to reduce nail pressure

What are the most promising areas of research for ingrown toenail prevention? Current research is focusing on understanding the genetic and environmental factors that predispose individuals to ingrown toenails. This could lead to more personalized prevention strategies and targeted treatments in the future.

The Role of Technology

Technology is playing an increasing role in foot care and the management of conditions like ingrown toenails:

• Telemedicine consultations for initial assessments and follow-ups
• 3D-printed custom orthotics to alleviate pressure on affected toes
• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Mobile apps for tracking foot health and providing care reminders

In conclusion, while ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition, they are generally manageable with proper care and attention. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms early, and taking appropriate preventive measures, most people can avoid the discomfort and complications associated with ingrown toenails. When problems do arise, a combination of home care and professional medical treatment can usually resolve the issue effectively. As research continues and technology advances, we can look forward to even better methods for preventing and treating this common foot ailment in the future.

Do ingrown toenails go away? Treatment, prevention, and outlook

An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail grows into the skin next to the nail. It most commonly affects the big toe.

Although an ingrown toenail will not go away without treatment, people can usually treat it at home.

In this article, we examine the symptoms and causes of ingrown toenails. We also look at how to treat and prevent them.

Share on PinterestPeople can effectively treat ingrown toenails at home over a few days.

Ingrown toenails are common and mostly affect adolescents and young adults. People at these ages experience increased perspiration, which can lead to the nail fold becoming soft. Also, participating in sport can result in a small piece of the nail embedding itself in the skin.

Older adults may also be more likely to develop ingrown toenails. This is because impaired vision and reduced mobility make it more difficult to care for nails, which tend to become thicker and more challenging with age.

The most common causes of an ingrown toenail include:

• Wearing poorly fitting shoes: Tight footwear or narrow shoes can place pressure on the nail wall when the big toe pushes into the second toe.
• Trimming toenails incorrectly: A toenail needs to be cut straight across above the nail bed. If it is cut too short, bulging tissue may lead to inflammation.
• Excessive sweating: Too much perspiration can cause the nail bed to become soft, so the nail penetrates the skin easily.
• Injuring the toe: Injuries may include stubbing the toe or dropping something on the foot.
• Taking part in sports: Sports, such as running or activities that involve repeatedly kicking a ball, may damage the toenails and increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
• Nail problems: Fungal infections, or losing a nail due to trauma, can cause ingrown toenails.
• Genetic predisposition: Some people inherit the tendency to develop ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails can be painful. The pain might range from mild to severe, and tends to get worse in stages.

Initial symptoms may include:

• redness around the toenail
• tenderness or pain along the sides of the toenail
• the skin around the nail becoming swollen or hard
• a buildup of fluid around the toe
• pain when putting pressure on the toe

If the nail is cutting into the skin, bacteria can get into the toe, which may cause an infection.

Symptoms of a toe infection may include:

• red, inflamed skin
• tenderness
• swelling
• pus discharge
• bleeding
• the skin of the nail fold grows over the nail

A person needs to treat their ingrown toenail as soon as possible to prevent symptoms from worsening.

How to check an ingrowing toenail

An ingrowing toenail might curve downwards into the skin, or the skin might look as though it is growing over the toenail.

A doctor will be able to diagnose an ingrown toenail with a physical exam. It is essential to seek advice from a doctor if the symptoms are severe, as several types of tumors can mimic the presentation of an ingrown toenail.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, people should treat an ingrown toenail as soon as they notice it.

They can help treat an ingrown toenail at home by:

• soaking the foot in warm water 3 or 4 times a day
• keeping the foot clean and dry at all other times
• wearing comfortable shoes that have enough room for the toes, such as sandals
• taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help relieve pain

People could also add Epsom salt to the water while soaking. They can also gently massage the side of the nail fold to reduce swelling.

Learn how to cut an ingrown toenail safely here.

The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons offer advice on what not to do with an ingrown toenail. They recommend:

• never cutting a notch in the nail, as it does not stop it from curving downwards into the skin
• not repeatedly trimming the nail around the borders, as it can make the condition worse
• not placing cotton under the nail, as it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, which increases the chance of infection
• avoiding over-the-counter ingrown toenail medications, as they may mask the pain, but do not treat the problem

Anyone who follows home care advice for ingrown toenails, but does not see any improvement within 2–3 days should speak to a doctor. It is also important to seek medical attention if there are signs of an infection.

People with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, nerve damage in the feet, or poor circulation, should see a doctor as soon as they notice an ingrown toenail.

Doctors will usually prescribe antibiotics if someone has an infected ingrown toenail.

They may also recommend further treatment, such as a minor surgical procedure, where they take away part of the nail’s side border. Doctors tend to perform this surgery under local anesthetic.

After the procedure, a doctor may apply a bandage and advise the person to rest until the following day. Most people say they have little or no pain afterward.

Learn more about surgery for an ingrown toenail here.

If someone treats an ingrown toenail before infection takes hold, the condition is usually harmless.

Most people can manage an ingrown toenail at home. Sometimes, nails may become ingrown again. If this is the case, a doctor may recommend a nail root removal procedure.

Most cases of ingrown toenails can be prevented by:

• Properly trimming nails: People should cut their nails in a straight line, taking care not to cut them too short. They should be able to get their fingernail under the sides and the end of the nail.
• Wearing shoes and socks that fit well: Ill-fitting shoes and socks can put pressure on the toes, particularly when walking fast or running, which can lead to ingrown toenails.
• Never picking at the toenails or tearing them off.
• Keeping the feet clean.

Ingrown toenails can be painful. They occur when the toenail grows into the toe, or when the skin grows over the nail. The condition usually affects big toes, but it can develop with any toe.

Ill-fitting shoes, improper nail trimming, and foot conditions can cause ingrown toenails.

They will not go away without intervention, but people can usually treat them at home over a few days.

A person should speak to a doctor if:

• the ingrown toenail does not improve with home care
• they have an underlying health condition that affects the feet, such as diabetes
• there are signs of infection

To avoid ingrown toenails, people should use footwear that gives their toes lots of space. They should also use proper nail trimming techniques.

Why Does My Ingrown Toenail Keep Coming Back?

Dr. Brian Nagy | June 7th, 2017

Posted In: Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are painful and can interrupt your day-to-day activities by making it painful to walk. While they are easy to fix, some people do experience recurring ingrown toenails that grow into the flesh of the toe over and over again.

The same issues that cause an initial ingrown toenail also cause the condition to recur including incorrectly fitting footwear and incorrect toenail trimming technique. The size and shape of your toenail can also contribute to recurring ingrown nails.

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail grows in a downward curve into the fleshy part of the toe. They are most common on the big toe, although they can develop on any of your toes. When the toenail grows into the flesh it can cause infection and inflammation resulting in quite a bit of pain which can lead to temporary mobility issues.

You’ll recognize the symptoms of an ingrown toenail. Your toe will be red and swollen, and may discharge pus, particularly around the area where the toenail is growing into the toe. It will also be warm and tender to touch. It is common to feel pain when you put shoes on or take a step.

What causes ingrown toenails?

One of the most common causes of ingrown toenails is incorrect trimming technique. You should always cut your toenails in a straight line and keep them short but not so short that you can see a lot of flesh between the end of your nail and the end of your toe.

It is also important to wear shoes that fit correctly, including sufficient room in the toe box. Pointed-toe shaped shoes and high heels are the worst culprits for putting too much pressure on the toes. When your shoes compress your toes, this can push your nail to grow into the nailbed, leading to ingrown toenails.

Trauma, including repeated pressure from activities like running, can also cause toenails to grow into the nail bed.

Heredity is also a contributing factor to ingrown toenails and may be one of the most common issues that lead to recurring ingrown nails. Some people grow toenails that are just too large for the toe which makes them more susceptible to growing into the nailbed. This can often lead to ingrown toenails redeveloping even after you’ve had surgical treatment

How are ingrown toenails treated?

Treatment for ingrown toenails is relatively straightforward. Your trusted podiatrist will make an appointment for you as soon as possible to treat your ingrown nail quickly. If you have to wait a day or so before an appointment is available you can soak your toe in warm water with Epsom salts to control any inflammation and wear shoes that allow for plenty of room around your toes.

Once you are in the podiatrist’s office for treatment, after applying a local anesthetic he will cut out the portion of your toenail that has grown into your flesh. He may prescribe a topical cream or ointment as well as antibiotics to fight off any infection that may be present.

What is the best treatment to keep ingrown toenails from redeveloping?

For patients who suffer from frequent in-grown toenails, the podiatrist may suggest cauterizing your nail to prevent it from growing out from the edges and into the flesh. If this treatment is effective, your nails will grow out normally, but the width will be controlled, preventing the nail from curving into the flesh.

How can I prevent ingrown toenails?

It’s important for you to take good care of your feet to prevent ingrown toenails and other uncomfortable foot issues. As mentioned above, make sure that you wear shoes that fit correctly, especially if you participate in sports or walk frequently. You should take care when trimming your toenails to cut them straight across and not let the ends curve down to create a rounded edge. And you should always seek professional treatment if you experience foot pain or symptoms of an ingrown toenail. Ingrown nails are always more easily treated when they are caught early, whether it is your first or your fifth time.

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Ingrown toenail pain can make it difficult to stand or walk. But the treatment for an ingrown toenail is simple. Also, you can take some steps to prevent this problem. If you have an infected ingrown toenail or a medical condition such as diabetes, then see your doctor for comprehensive care.

What is an ingrown toenail

An ingrown toenail is a foot condition that develops when the corner of the nail grows into the skin. Usually affects the big toe. Ingrown toenails often occur when people trim their toenails by narrowing the angle of the nail. If the nail is bent into the shape of a finger, it can grow into the skin. Ingrown toenails are common and usually do not pose a health risk to healthy people.

Who can have an ingrown toenail

Anyone can have an ingrown toenail. High risk groups include adolescents, athletes and those with the following conditions:

• Diabetes.
• Severe nerve injury of the leg or foot.
• Poor blood circulation.
• Nail infections.

How common is ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails are a very common foot problem. Two out of ten people who see a doctor for foot problems have an ingrown toenail.

What causes an ingrown toenail

An ingrown toenail can have many causes:

• Improperly trimmed nails. If you cut your nails too short or too round, the nail can grow into the skin.
• Incorrectly fitted shoes.
• Tearing off the corner of the nail.
• Injury to the toe, eg hitting or stepping on the toe.
• Congenital causes (shape of your foot) – for example, if your toenail is larger than your toe, or the surrounding tissue of the edge of the nail grows naturally around the nail.

What are the signs and symptoms of an infected ingrown toenail

At first, an ingrown toenail may be hard and swollen. If the nail grows into the skin or the skin extends beyond the edge of the nail, bacteria can get in. Signs of an ingrown toenail infection include:

• Fluid or pus coming out of the toe.
• Pain.
• Redness or darkening of the ingrown area.
• Swelling.
• Sensation of warmth or heat in the toes.

How an ingrown toenail is diagnosed

You can often diagnose an ingrown toenail yourself based on your symptoms and the appearance of your toe.

Your primary care physician (who may be your primary care physician or foot specialist) is likely to diagnose an ingrown toenail by examining it. He will examine the skin around the edge of the nail. He diagnoses an ingrown toenail if:

1. Skin grows over the nail.
2. Finger swollen, hot and red.

What tests can help diagnose an ingrown toenail

Generally, no tests or x-rays are needed to diagnose an ingrown toenail. In rare cases where the toenail is severely infected, your health care provider may take a culture sample to look for infection. X-rays may also be needed for more serious infections.

How to treat an ingrown toenail

You can treat an ingrown toenail at home. These steps help fight infection and prevent pain:

• Soak your feet twice a day in warm water with Epsom salts.
• Keep your feet dry the rest of the time.
• Gently lift the edge of the nail and place the cotton between the nail and the skin. Change your tampon every day.
• Apply antibiotic cream and dressing.
• Wear loose shoes or sandals.
• Use pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed.

Can I trim an ingrown toenail myself

If you have an ingrown toenail, do not try to trim it yourself. If you cut the nail, the condition may worsen. If symptoms do not improve with home remedies, see your doctor.

Do I need a doctor to treat my ingrown toenail?

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or your toenail gets worse, call your doctor.

You should also see a doctor as soon as possible if your nail is growing into the skin and you have been diagnosed with the following conditions:

• Diabetes.
• Severe nerve injury.
• Poor blood circulation.
• Infection.

Does an ingrown toenail require surgery

Most ingrown toenails heal without surgery. In severe cases, a doctor may need to remove part of the nail surgically. The procedure is called “breaking” the nail. Surgery prevents the edge of the nail from growing in and cutting into the skin. For children who continue to suffer from ingrown toenails, permanent nail removal may help.

During partial or complete nail loss, the doctor injects an anesthetic (pain medication) into the toe. The doctor then cuts off part or all of the toenail. It may take several months for the nail to grow back. For a recurring ingrown toenail, these breakdown procedures can be done continuously with a chemical that kills the root of the nail.

How to prevent ingrown nails

You can take the following steps to prevent ingrown nails:

• Soak your feet in warm water before cutting them or trim your nails immediately after showering or bathing.
• Clean the nail trimmer before use.
• Do not tear or break nails.
• Cut your nails straight. Don’t round corners.
• Wear shoes that fit you. It should not be too loose or tight around the toes.
• Avoid repetitive injury to lateral nail folds.

If you have diabetes, follow all of your doctor’s recommendations for foot care. If you have diabetes, DO NOT delay seeking medical attention.

What are the prospects for a person with an ingrown toenail

In most cases, an ingrown toenail is not a serious health problem. Treating an ingrown toenail usually helps. Nails will not grow in if you take good care of your feet.

You may need regular foot care checkups if you have a medical condition that causes foot problems, such as nerve damage or diabetes.

When should I see a doctor for an ingrown toenail

See a doctor for an ingrown toenail if you have any of the following conditions or symptoms:

• Diabetes
• Signs of infection (discharge of pus or fluid, severe pain or redness).
• Poor blood circulation.
• If you’ve used topical antibiotic ointments and taken proper care of your feet and nails, but your toe still hurts.

What questions should I ask my doctor

If you have an ingrown toenail, ask your doctor:

• Is there an infection?
• What should be the treatment?
• Do I need an operation?
• How can I prevent this problem?
• Do I need medication?
• How to cut nails to avoid ingrown nails?

An ingrown toenail is annoying and painful but can be treated. Often, foot baths improve symptoms within a few days. If you don’t get better, see a doctor who can help you manage your ingrown toenail. Do not try to trim an ingrown toenail at home. In the future, to prevent ingrown toenails, wear loose-fitting shoes and cut your toenails straight across rather than tapering to the shape of your toe.

We wish you healthy days.

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Ingrown toenail treatments | Rubric “Question – Answer” ✓ Clinic of Podology in Moscow

01. Is resection of the nail plate effective?

Resection of the nail plate is used in podology for the treatment of onychocryptosis. Onychocryptosis – an ingrown nail is an ingrowth of the nail plate into the lateral or lateral skin ridges. In this case, inflammation and swelling of the skin roller occurs, pain appears. This pathology is quite common. The causes of onychocryptosis can be different: improper hygiene of the nail plates (incorrect processing), wearing narrow shoes, congenital predisposition, flat feet, trauma. Resection of the nail plate is one of the methods of surgical treatment of this pathology. At the moment, there are various methods of this manipulation: depending on the technical equipment, medical specialty and qualifications of the doctor.

Different methods have a different degree of effectiveness, namely the percentage of recurrence. Our clinic uses some of the most minimally invasive and highly effective methods.

02. Why does the nail grow back after total removal?

After surgical treatment of onychocryptosis (ingrown nail), a relapse can be provoked by:

However, most often, re-ingrown toenails are the result of an incorrectly performed operation. For example, removal of the nail plate without part of the growth zone of the nail.
Specialists of the Clinic of Podology successfully correct such errors with the help of modern methods of radio wave and laser surgery. The combination of professional medical experience and advanced technologies guarantees an impeccable treatment result, allowing the patient to forget about the problem of onychocryptosis forever.

03. When the Arcade method is used in children, what are the features of the cases when it helps?

The Arkada method effectively and painlessly treats the deformation of the nail plates, it is allowed from the age of 6. It is recommended to carry out the procedure if twisting and ingrown nails are accompanied by:

soreness and swelling of the periungual tissues;

Discoloration of the nail plate and periungual fold;

Discharge of pus in the inflamed area.

Correction is performed using an acrylic mass, which fixes the correct shape of the nail, and collagen serum, which acts as an antiseptic. Immediately after the session, the child can put on the usual shoes and move actively.

04. Installation of staples and plates on the nails that you suggest, does it hurt?

Most often, the installation of staples and plates is not a painful procedure and does not cause discomfort during wear. In rare cases, when the clinical picture (ingrown nail plates, twisting, discomfort in the area of ​​the lateral ridges, active; inflammatory process with hyperemia and purulent discharge) shows the installation of hook clips, then at the time of installation there may be discomfort and pain that may persist within a few days.

05. Removed ingrown toenails repeatedly, as a result, the nails began to grow very small, and a lot of meat grows around, so that it prevents the nail from growing. Is it possible to correct the situation so that the nails grow back to normal size?

Due to the constant traumatization of the nail plates during surgical removal, the formation of deformed nails is possible. The nail plates are formed narrowed due to the deep-set edges in the lateral sinuses of the skin ridges. For this, there are correction systems (braces, plates) that will forcibly expand the nail plates and set the correct vector for nail growth.

06. What are the causes of ingrown toenails on the thumbs and second fingers? How is this pathology treated? Is it possible to prevent this?

There are many causes of an ingrown toenail. The central reason is the deep trimming of the corners of the nail, as a result of which the newly growing plate is not able to break through the thickness of the side ridges, thereby cutting and digging into them.

In addition, the wrong pedicure, twisting of the nail plate due to:

• toe deformities, both genetic and acquired,
• flat feet transverse or longitudinal-transverse.

In the presence of an acute phase of inflammation, the first step is to remove the ingrown segment by excision. After that, the specialist of the Clinic of Podology controls the growth of the nail plate, strictly adhering to the treatment plan. During the rehabilitation period, the specialist of the Clinic of Podology determines the need to use orthonexia methods (braces and plates), which relieve the pressure of the nail on the inflamed finger roller, pain and give the wound the opportunity to heal in the sinus of the roller, or without them.

There are many recommendations for preventing these deviations. In each specific case, you can contact the leading specialist of the Podology Clinic for a consultation, where you will receive all the information you are interested in.

07. What are staples? What pathologies are they used for? What are the types of staples?

Staples – a wire made of medical steel (diameter from 0.3 to 0.5 mm), which does not corrode in the wound of the lateral ridges under the action of sweat, blood, does not potentiate inflammation and does not cause an allergic reaction. A non-surgical method of treating the pathology of the nail plates is called orthonyxia. Orthonyxia is used to treat an ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) and correct crooked nails with special tissue materials, staples or plates. The staples have side hooks, which are fixed to the lateral edges of the nail, thereby having the maximum opportunity to apply tension to the nail plate upwards, i.e. activating it as much as the doctor considers necessary for this pathology. The golden mean is important in everything: strong activation will provoke onycholysis (exfoliation of the nail plate), weak activation will provoke even more inflammation. Depending on the type of nail and the place where it grows into the side roller, the starting point for installing the bracket is determined. Depending on the material and application features, there are several types of brackets: Combiped bracket, 3-TO bracket, Fraser bracket. You can read more about this issue here.

08. What are plates? What pathologies are they used for? What are the types of plates?

Plates are a non-surgical treatment method called orthonexia. Orthonyxia is used to treat an ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) and correct crooked nails with special tissue materials, staples or plates. The plates are made of plastic or metal enclosed in a plastic braid. The plates are installed only on the surface of the nail, do not come into contact with the tissues of the side ridges.

These techniques are used in patients of the following categories:

• Teenagers
• Patients suffering from hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the feet)
• Patients for whom a brace is not technically feasible. Depending on the material and application features, there are several types of plates: B / S plate, Onyclip plate, Podofix plate. You can read more about this issue here.

09. I changed pedicure masters and after the first procedure, after 2 weeks, I began to notice unpleasant sensations in the area of ​​the edges of the nail of the 1st toes. What could it be? Before that, there were no problems with nails.

Incorrect pedicure is one of the most common causes of an ingrown toenail. Probably, the master rounded the corner too much or cut the nail very short, which is absolutely impossible to do. The nails on the big toes should be cut strictly in a straight line, and their edges should fall to the level of the edge of the phalanx of the finger.

At the initial stage of development of onychocryptosis, there are no special visible manifestations. The person feels only slight discomfort. Later, the nail plate begins to cut into the lateral nail ridges, causing pain and inflammation, suppuration of the soft tissues.

Initially, you can try to deal with the problem yourself. For 3-5 days, make warm foot baths daily with the addition of salt, soapy water and antibacterial drugs.

After the water procedure, a thin gauze or cotton roll moistened with miramistin, hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine is placed under the softened nail plate. This flagellum is changed daily, gradually moving it towards the base of the nail.