Ingrown toenail is when the sides of the toenail grow into the skin around the nail. This can cause pain, swelling and redness and, if left untreated, can cause infection. Usually the big toe is affected but it can occur on any toe.

Ingrown toenail can affect anyone but it is more commonly seen in teens and in older people.

 Causes:

• Incorrectly cut toenails
• Tight-fitting footwear, including socks and tights
• Excessive sweating (particularly in teens/young people)
• Poor foot hygiene
• Thickening of the nails (particularly in older people)
• Injury
• Nail infections
• Natural shape of the toenail

How to Prevent & Treat Ingrown Toenails:

• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Wear shoes that are not tight or uncomfortable and which do not squash your toes
• Cut nails straight across, not down the sides
• Occasionally soak feet in a warm salt bath
• Do not pick the affected area but, using a cotton bud, try moving the skin gently away from the nail
• Seek professional advice before the area becomes infected or if you suspect that the area may be infected
• Seek professional advice immediately if you have diabetes and think that you may have ingrown toenail
• Surgery may be recommended if ingrown toenail is persistent and severe

Professional advice can be sought from your GP or your local Podiatrist/Chiropodist.

If you would like to make an appointment with Debbie Shears, our Podiatrist, or Julie-nne Monahan, our Foot Health Care Practitioner, or if you need any other information please contact us on 020 89773295.