Ingrown toenails (also called onychocryptosis) are among the most common conditions that people have to deal with. They are a source of immense foot pain and can be even more dangerous for patients suffering from diabetes or circulatory difficulties.
In this condition, the corner of the toenail grows into the soft skin and causes swelling, pain, and redness. Though no toe is immune to ingrown toenails, it is usually the big toe that suffers from this. In worst cases, the ingrown toenail causes a break in the skin, making way for bacteria to creep in. This further leads to painful infections.
Common causes of ingrown toenails
The most common causes of ingrown toenails include:
- Heredity: Many times, people inherit the tendency to develop ingrown toenails from their parents.
- Trauma/Pressure: If you stub your toe or drop something heavy on it, it can result in the development of ingrown toenails. Also, if you participate in activities, like running and ballet, that put repeated pressure on your toes, it can cause ingrown toenails to develop.
- Ill-fitted footwear: Wearing tight and ill-fitted shoes can not only be a cause of discomfort for your feet but also cause ingrown toenails. In fact, this is the most common reason for ingrown toenails amongst teens and adolescents as they outgrow their footwear quickly but still keep wearing them.
- Improper trimming: If you cut your nails too short, you are welcoming ingrown toenails. When your nails are too short, the skin at the sides folds over it, and when the nails start growing, it digs into the skin.
- Poor circulation: Older people who have poor arterial circulation are more prone to having ingrown toenails. This will be a common problem for you if you have a long history of tobacco abuse or are a patient of diabetes or heart disease.
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness in the toe on one or both sides
- Redness around the toenail
- Swelling around the toenail
- Infection of the tissue around the toenail
Preventing ingrown toenails
- Always cut your nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short or unevenly.
- Wear shoes and socks that provide enough room at the toes. Wiggle your toes to check if your socks are of the perfect size.
- If you participate in strenuous physical activity, try to go barefoot for a couple of hours afterward.
- Use a toenail clipper, rather than a fingernail clipper, as it is larger and wider.
- Clean your nails regularly.
- Keep toenails at a moderate length. This will prevent them from growing into the tissue.
- If you have diabetes, check your feet daily for any signs of ingrown toenails.
How to treat ingrown toenails?
At FootDocStore.com, we are dedicated to enhancing foot health and offer a plethora of products to provide people with optimum foot comfort. If you are suffering from this painful condition of ingrown toenails, the Gel Toe Cap at our online store could provide the relief you need. This soft Polymer gel cap can absorb all friction and offer you relief from pain caused by ingrown toenails. This product features free shipping too. So, get one for yourself, and your toenails will thank you!