When a toenail edge presses against and irritates the nail fold or adjacent skin. Ingrown toenails can have associated pain, infection, corns, calluses and hypergranulation. Hypergranuation is a red growth made up of tiny blood vessels, scar tissue and connective tissue.
INGROWN TOENAIL CAUSES
Ingrown toenail causes An ingrown toenail may be caused or contributed by one or more of these conditions:
- Involuted (excessively curved) toenails
- Trauma to the toenail
- Toenails that are too wide and flat for the nail bed
- A nail spike or sharp edge that has been left in the corner when trimming
- Toe deformities (claw toes, bunions)
- Faulty foot posture and biomechanics
- Shoes that are too tight around the toes
- Genetic predisposition to an abnormal nail shape
- Sweaty skin
TREATMENTS FOR ONCE OFF INGROWN TOENAILS
We may implement one or more of the following:
- Skilful trimming of the nail edge to remove the offending nail spike, sharp edge or involution edge
- Removal of nail edge calluses and dry skin
- Packing of the edge with material to prevent nail and skin fold contact
- Topical antiseptics to reduce bacterial and fungal populations
- Referral for oral antibiotics therapy in moderate-severe bacterial infections
- Dressings to protect the toe from environmental bacteria, fungi and trauma
- Discussion regarding ingrown toenail prevention
TREATMENTS FOR ONCE OFF INGROWN TOENAILS
We may implement one or more of the following:
- Skilful trimming of the nail edge to remove the offending nail spike, sharp edge or involution edge
- Removal of nail edge calluses and dry skin
- Packing of the edge with material to prevent nail and skin fold contact
- Topical antiseptics to reduce bacterial and fungal populations
- Referral for oral antibiotics therapy in moderate-severe bacterial infections
- Dressings to protect the toe from environmental bacteria, fungi and trauma
- Discussion regarding ingrown toenail prevention
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR REOCCURRING INGROWN TOENAILS
A consultation with a podiatrist trained in both surgery and nail bracing will help you decide the best treatment option for your circumstances. Our foot health practitioners and podiatrists have seen patients from all over Ireland, to offer accurate and in-depth advice on dealing with these issues.
TOENAIL BRACING:
A smooth wire or plastic device is glued to the toenail like braces are applied to teeth. A gentle force within the brace encourages the nail to reposition. 4-6 weekly appointments are required until the desired nail shape is achieved. This can take 4-18 months depending on severity.
NAIL SURGERY:
Under local anesthesia the offending section of the toenail is removed. The cells that create the nail are chemically destroyed with phenol meaning this section of the nail shouldn’t grow back. Only in very rare circumstances is the whole toenail removed. The surgery is performed in a clinic in a sterile environment. No stitches are required.
