Painful Ingrown Toenails – Causes and Treatment

Ingrown Toenail Causes

Ingrown toenails occur most often alongside the big toe. The nail becomes “ingrown” when the edge of the toenail is driven into the tissue surrounding it, typically by shoes or boots that are too tight. The nail cuts into the side of the toe (ouch). The result can be shooting pain as pressure is put on the nerves.

Other Causes for Ingrown Toenails

• injury
• fungal infection
• psoriasis
• heredity
• poor foot structure

Ingrown Toenail Treatments

Sometimes a mildly ingrown toenail can be treated at home. First soak the area in warm soapy water. Then trim away the ingrown part of the nail. Gently lift the free the free edge and place sterile cotton under the nail until swelling is reduced.

If infected, the area around the toe may become extremely painful, red and swollen. Pus filled blisters may develop. At this point, you may want to make an appointment with a Registered Chiropodist, who is Licensed for Nail Surgery and Local Anesthesia in Oakville.

We can’t stress this part enough: People living with diabetes should never attempt to remove an ingrown toenail. Professional diabetic footcare is needed. Book an appointment with your Chiropodist immediately.

Hop on over to our Ingrown Toenails page and see how you can prevent ingrown toenails.