Contact Us

Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenails, medically known as onychocryptosis, are a common condition where the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. While conservative treatments can often manage mild cases, surgical intervention may be necessary for severe or recurrent cases.

Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including:

  • Improper Toenail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
  • Footwear: Tight, narrow, or poorly fitting shoes can put pressure on the toes, causing the nails to grow abnormally.
  • Injury: Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing it or repetitive impact from activities like running, can cause the toenail to grow improperly.
  • Genetics: A family history of ingrown toenails can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
  • Poor Foot Hygiene: Not keeping feet clean and dry can lead to conditions that promote ingrown toenails.
  • Abnormal Nail Shape: Naturally curved or thick nails can be more prone to growing into the skin.

Ingrown toenails can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain and infection. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain and Tenderness: Pain along the sides of the toenail, especially when pressure is applied.
  • Redness and Swelling: Inflammation around the affected area.
  • Infection: Pus, warmth, and increased redness can indicate an infection.
  • Overgrowth of Skin: Skin may grow over the ingrown part of the nail.
  • Difficulty Walking: Severe pain and swelling can make walking uncomfortable.

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails:

  • Age: Teenagers and young adults are more prone due to rapid growth and active lifestyles.
  • Footwear: Wearing tight or high-heeled shoes that squeeze the toes.
  • Athletic Activities: Sports that involve running, kicking, or other repetitive foot trauma.
  • Genetics: A family history of ingrown toenails.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes can cause poor blood circulation and nerve damage, increasing the risk of complications from ingrown toenails.
  • Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the feet, contributing to the development of ingrown toenails.

Treatment Options

Treatment for ingrown toenails varies based on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be managed with conservative treatments, while severe or recurrent cases often require surgical intervention.

Initial treatment for ingrown toenails usually involves at-home care or non-surgical methods aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing further complications.

Methods:

  • Soaking: Soaking the affected foot in warm water with Epsom salts several times a day can reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
  • Proper Nail Care: Trimming nails straight across and avoiding cutting them too short can prevent the nail from growing into the skin.
  • Footwear: Wearing comfortable shoes with plenty of room for the toes can reduce pressure on the affected area.
  • Antibiotics: If an infection is present, topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • Cotton or Dental Floss: Placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the edge of the ingrown nail can help it grow above the skin.

Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail or if the ingrown toenail is severe, recurrent, or causing significant pain and infection.

Methods:

  • Partial Nail Avulsion:
    • Procedure: This involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia. The nail edge is trimmed, and the ingrown part is carefully removed.
    • Post-Procedure: The toe is bandaged, and patients are advised to keep the foot elevated and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
  • Total Nail Avulsion:
    • Procedure: In cases of severe or recurrent ingrown toenails, the entire nail may be removed. Local anaesthesia is used, and the entire nail plate is lifted and removed.
    • Post-Procedure: Healing time is longer compared to partial removal, and the nail may grow back differently or not at all.
  • Matrixectomy:
    • Procedure: This involves the destruction or removal of the nail matrix (the root of the nail) to prevent the ingrown toenail from recurring. This can be done using chemicals (phenol) or surgical excision.
    • Post-Procedure: Recovery involves wound care to ensure proper healing. The nail may not grow back, or if it does, it may be thinner and less likely to become ingrown again.
  • Laser Surgery:
    • Procedure: A laser is used to remove the ingrown portion of the nail and sometimes the nail matrix to prevent recurrence.
    • Post-Procedure: This method offers precision and a potentially faster healing time compared to traditional surgery.

Proper post-surgical care is essential for ensuring successful healing and preventing complications. Recommendations include:

  • Wound Care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Follow instructions for changing dressings and applying topical medications.
  • Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help manage postoperative pain.
  • Foot Elevation: Keeping the foot elevated can reduce swelling and promote healing.
  • Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and wear open-toed or loose-fitting shoes until the toe heals.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Preventing ingrown toenails involves adopting good foot care practices and making lifestyle adjustments:

  • Proper Nail Trimming: Cut toenails straight across and avoid rounding the edges. Use clean, sharp nail clippers.
  • Footwear Choices: Wear shoes that fit well and provide ample room for the toes. Avoid high heels and tight shoes that can compress the toes.
  • Foot Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry to prevent infections and other foot problems.
  • Prompt Treatment of Injuries: Address any toe injuries promptly to prevent complications.
  • Regular Foot Checks: Inspect feet regularly, especially if you have diabetes or other conditions that increase the risk of foot problems.

Conclusion

Ingrown toenails are a common but manageable condition. Understanding the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and prevention. In Australia, advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive healthcare services ensure that patients receive the best possible care for ingrown toenails, promoting optimal health outcomes and quality of life.

Specialists in General Surgery & Endoscopy

Group practice of General Surgeons and Clinicians dedicated to improving patient health outcomes and quality of life on the South Coast.

Contact our friendly team if you have any questions, or to arrange an appointment.

Contact Us

Highly skilled group
of South Coast surgeons.

About Us

Services

Address

  • 45 Queen Streeet
    Moruya, NSW, 2573

Phone

Copyright © Eurbodalla, 2024