Many of your favorite summer activities, from baseball to running, could be increasing your risk of developing ingrown toenails. At Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle, we frequently see patients who develop ingrown toenails from activities that involve sudden stops, starts, or repetitive pressure on the toes. Sports like tennis, soccer, and running can force the nail to grow into the skin, leading to pain, inflammation, and potential infection.
Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, occur when the nail edge grows into the skin surrounding it, causing discomfort. This common foot condition can develop for various reasons, including injury, flawed foot structure, heredity, or even fungal infections. While they might seem like a minor inconvenience at first, untreated ingrown toenails can become quite painful and lead to infection. Understanding the causes, treatment options, and preventive measures can help you stay ahead of this issue.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail, including:
- Sports and Activities: Sudden stops, starts, and pushing your toes into the front of your shoes during activities like baseball, running, or tennis can force your nail into the surrounding skin.
- Injury: Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or other types of trauma can cause the toenail to grow improperly.
- Foot Structure: Some people are simply more prone to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape of their toes or nails.
- Heredity: Ingrown toenails can run in families, making some individuals genetically predisposed to developing them.
- Fungal Infection: A fungal infection can cause thickening or changes in the shape of the nail, leading to abnormal growth and increasing the chances of an ingrown nail.
Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail
If a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Swelling and redness around the nail
- Pain and tenderness in the affected toe
- The area may feel warm to the touch
- Inflammation and possible infection if the skin is punctured
- Infections can cause pus or fluid drainage from the site
Early intervention is crucial to prevent the condition from worsening. If you suspect an ingrown toenail, take action right away.
Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails
If you notice the signs of an ingrown toenail, there are a few steps you can take at home to alleviate symptoms. One of the simplest treatments involves soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water for about 15-20 minutes several times a day. After soaking, gently massage the side of the toe where the nail is growing into the skin. In some cases, this can help the nail grow out naturally, reducing pain and inflammation.
However, if home remedies do not improve your condition or if you notice signs of infection, it’s time to seek professional treatment. At Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle, our board-certified foot and ankle surgeon will evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective treatment.
Professional Treatment Options Include:
- Antibiotics: If there is an infection, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to clear it up and prevent further complications.
- Partial Nail Plate Avulsion: In more severe cases where the nail is deeply embedded into the skin or causing significant pain, a partial removal of the nail (nail plate avulsion) may be necessary. During this procedure, the doctor will inject the toe with a local anesthetic to numb the area, then carefully remove the portion of the nail that is causing the problem. This procedure can provide long-term relief, allowing the nail to grow back properly without digging into the skin.
Prevention of Ingrown Toenails
Preventing ingrown toenails is easier than treating them, and a few simple habits can help you avoid this painful condition.
- Trim Nails Properly: Cut your toenails straight across, avoiding rounding the corners or creating jagged edges that can lead to the nail growing into the skin. Nails should be kept at a moderate length—long enough to protect the toes but not so long that they press against the front of your shoe.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit properly, providing enough space for your toes to move without being cramped. Avoid shoes that are too tight in the toe box, as they can force your nails into the surrounding skin.
- Inspect and Wash Feet Daily: Keeping your feet clean and dry can reduce the risk of fungal infections and other conditions that can lead to ingrown toenails. Make it a habit to check your toes and nails for any signs of swelling, redness, or abnormal growth.
- Use Protective Footwear for Sports: If you participate in sports or fitness activities that involve repeated pressure on the toes, make sure you wear shoes designed for those activities. Athletic shoes should provide adequate cushioning and support for the toes to reduce friction and impact.
- Avoid Trauma: Be cautious of activities that could cause trauma to the feet. Protect your toes from injury by wearing proper footwear in environments where dropping objects or stubbing your toes is common.
Special Considerations for People with Diabetes or Circulatory Problems
If you have diabetes or other conditions that affect your immune system or circulation, it’s especially important to take care of your feet. An ingrown toenail can quickly develop into a more serious medical issue, such as a diabetic foot ulcer or an infection that is harder to treat. If you are diabetic or have poor circulation, you should see a podiatrist at the first sign of an ingrown toenail, even if it seems mild.
Conclusion
While ingrown toenails are common, they can become more than just a minor annoyance if left untreated. Whether caused by sports, improper footwear, or genetics, it’s important to take prompt action when symptoms arise. At Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle, we specialize in the treatment and prevention of ingrown toenails, ensuring that our patients can get back to their normal activities pain-free.
If you have questions about ingrown toenails or other foot concerns, or if you need to schedule an appointment for professional treatment, contact our office in California, Maryland. Our team is here to provide expert care and relief from any foot problems you may be facing.