What is an ingrowing toenail?
It is where the side of the nail cuts into the skin next to the nail. This may cause infection or inflamation. Most often found in the big toe, ingrowing toenails are a common problem, especially in the elderly, young adults and sports people.
What causes ingrowing toenails?
A sharp spike of nail growing into the skin. This can happen as a result of various factors, including:
• Not trimming nails correctly.
• Wearing poorly fitting shoes.
• Sweating a lot.
• Deformed nails.
• Injury to the toenail.
• Fungal infetion of the toenail.
Who can treat?
It is a common misconception that your GP will treat this problem. Their usual route is a course of antibiotics which will reduce inflammation but not fix the problem. The cause (nail cutting into the skin) needs to be removed. The GP should refer you to a Podiatrist. Some specialise in ingrown toenails and in most cases can fix conservatively (using careful skills and specialist tools) unless severe in which case surgery may be required.
Self Help
Find a Podiatrist that specialises in ingrowing nails. Do not try yourself!
