Ingrown Toenails: Myths, Facts, and Treatment Options

Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition where the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This issue can lead to discomfort, infection, and difficulty walking if not treated properly. Despite their prevalence, many myths and misconceptions persist about what causes ingrown toenails, how to treat them, and how to prevent their recurrence. This comprehensive guide will debunk common myths, provide accurate facts, and explore the best treatment options available for this condition.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edges or corners of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin. This usually affects the big toe but can occur on any toe. Factors contributing to ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, tight or ill-fitting footwear, genetic predisposition, and trauma to the toe.

Myths About Ingrown Toenails

1. Myth: Only Poor Hygiene Causes Ingrown Toenails
   • Fact: While poor hygiene can contribute to foot problems, ingrown toenails often result from improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or genetic factors. Maintaining clean feet is important, but it is not the primary cause.
2. Myth: Ingrown Toenails Will Heal on Their Own
   • Fact: While mild cases might improve with home care, untreated ingrown toenails can lead to severe infections, chronic pain, and more invasive treatments. Professional care ensures proper healing.
3. Myth: Cutting a V Shape in the Toenail Prevents Ingrowth
   • Fact: This old remedy is ineffective. Proper trimming, straight across the nail, is the best preventive measure. The V shape does not change the growth pattern of the nail.
4. Myth: Only Athletes Get Ingrown Toenails
   • Fact: While athletes are more prone due to repetitive pressure and trauma, anyone can develop ingrown toenails, especially if they wear tight shoes or trim their nails incorrectly.
5. Myth: Surgery Is the Only Treatment Option
   • Fact: Conservative treatments are often effective. Surgery is reserved for chronic or severe cases when other methods fail.

Facts About Ingrown Toenails

1. Anyone Can Get Ingrown Toenails
   • While more common in athletes and individuals with naturally curved nails, anyone can develop them if proper foot care is neglected.
2. Infections Can Become Serious
   • If an ingrown toenail becomes infected, it can lead to cellulitis, abscess formation, or even bone infections (osteomyelitis) if not treated promptly.
3. Podiatrists Offer Effective Solutions
   • From conservative treatments to minor surgical procedures, podiatrists can effectively treat and prevent recurrence. Timely intervention can reduce pain and avoid complications.
4. Genetics Play a Role
   • Some people are genetically predisposed to developing ingrown toenails due to the natural shape and curvature of their nails.
5. Footwear Matters
   • Wearing tight shoes, high heels, or shoes with a narrow toe box increases the risk of ingrown toenails by putting excessive pressure on the toes.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails

• Home Remedies:
  • Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water or Epsom salt solutions for 15–20 minutes several times a day can reduce swelling and tenderness.
  • Applying antiseptic ointments and keeping the area clean may help prevent infection.
  • Gently lifting the ingrown nail edge with a cotton ball or dental floss can provide temporary relief.
• Professional Care:
  • Nail Elevation: For mild cases, a podiatrist can lift the nail and place a small splint to guide it to grow above the skin.
  • Partial Nail Avulsion: In more severe cases, a portion of the nail is removed under local anesthesia to relieve pain and pressure.
• Surgical Solutions:
  • Matrixectomy: For recurrent ingrown toenails, the nail matrix can be partially or completely destroyed to prevent regrowth.
  • Laser Surgery: Modern laser techniques offer precision in removing problematic nail portions with minimal discomfort and faster recovery.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

1. Trim Nails Properly:
   • Cut toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges that encourage nail growth into the skin.
2. Choose Appropriate Footwear:
   • Wear shoes that provide adequate space for your toes, reducing pressure on the toenails.
3. Practice Good Foot Hygiene:
   • Keep feet clean and dry to prevent bacterial and fungal infections.
4. Inspect Feet Regularly:
   • Check for signs of ingrown nails, especially if you have diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation.
5. Seek Prompt Treatment:
   • Early intervention prevents complications and reduces the need for invasive procedures.

When to See a Podiatrist

Seek medical advice if:

• Pain or discomfort persists despite home treatment.
• Signs of infection appear, such as redness, swelling, or pus.
• You have a medical condition like diabetes that increases infection risks.
• The ingrown toenail recurs frequently despite preventive measures.

At Sole Foot and Ankle, we specialize in providing expert care for ingrown toenails. Our team offers personalized treatment plans to relieve your pain and prevent future problems. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get back to pain-free living.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you fix ingrown toenails?
   Ingrown toenails can be fixed by soaking the foot in warm, soapy water, applying antibiotic ointment, and gently lifting the edge of the nail. Severe cases may require professional treatment.
2. What draws an ingrown toenail out?
   Soaking the affected toe in warm salt water helps reduce swelling and draw out the ingrown nail. Using a cotton ball or dental floss under the nail edge can also help.
3. Can an ingrown toenail go away by itself?
   Mild ingrown toenails may resolve on their own with proper hygiene and foot care. However, persistent or painful cases usually require treatment.
4. Is it okay to dig out an ingrown toenail?
   It is not recommended to dig out an ingrown toenail at home, as this can worsen the condition or cause infection. A podiatrist should handle more severe cases.
5. What does a stage 3 ingrown toenail look like?
   A stage 3 ingrown toenail is characterized by severe pain, significant redness, swelling, and possible pus or drainage due to infection. The nail may also grow into the surrounding skin.