INGROWING TOENAIL

An ingrowing toenail pierces the flesh of the toe, often extremely painful with inflammation and may be infected. In some instances, ingrowing toenails may discharge pus and/or blood. Ingrowing toenails often affect the first nail or big toenail, though may affect other toenails too.

Causes of Ingrowing Toenails

Factors which make an individual prone to developing ingrowing toenails include:

• Posture & Gait
• Foot deformities e.g. bunions, hammer toes
• Your nails may also have a natural tendency to splay or curl out instead of growing straight, encouraging your nail to grow outwards or inwards into the flesh.
• Tight footwear may also push your toe flesh into the nail so that it pierces the skin.
• Shoes that are narrow or ill fitting may also lead to ingrowing toenails.
• The most common cause is not cutting your toenails correctly e.g. cutting nails too short or leaving sharp edges.

What is the treatment for Ingrowing Toenails?

Nail Surgery or Partial nail avulsion (PNA) may be beneficial in most cases. This is done under a local anaesthetic where a small section of the nail is removed (including the root) so that the nail permanently becomes slightly narrower. This procedure usually does not alter the cosmetic appearance of the nail as it heals without event in most cases within a few weeks. This is over 95% successful. Your podiatrist can advise you more once you attend for assessment of your foot pain. After surgery, the nail will usually look natural and healthy – many people even forget which nail they’ve had done.

Is it serious?

If left untreated, the infection may spread to the rest of the toe and foot. It should be treated as soon as possible as this lessens the likelihood of bacterial spread and makes the treatment often less painful.

When should I see a podiatrist about it?

Contact our team to consult with a Podiatrist if you experience:

• Pain in your toe from the ingrowing nail
• Symptoms of infection, especially if you have Diabetes or a poor immune system
• If the toe is weeping