What are Ingrown Toenails ?

Ingrown toenails occur when the side of the nail penetrates the skin on the side of the toe. They occur more commonly in the big toenails but can occur with the little nails also. This condition seems to occur most frequently in adolescent boys. It is one of the most common problems that our podiatrists see and it often doesn't require surgery if you get it treated early. If however the ingrowing toenail is left untreated it may become a chronic problem which may require surgery. In most cases, chronic ingrown nails can be removed permanently by one of our Podiatrists in our clinic (without admission to hospital).

What can Cause Ingrown Toenails ?ingrown-toenail

    • Incorrect toenail cutting
    • Picking at your toenails
    • Pressure from footwear
    • Injury to the toenail
    • Genetic susseptability

Excessive sweating and poor hygiene can make the condition worse.

What are the Signs & Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails ?

    • Pain when touched
    • Redness and swelling
    • Proud flesh along the nail edge (may be present)
    • Pus and blood (may be present)

What are the Treatments for Ingrown toenails ?

At Irymple Foot Clinic we suggest the most simple, least expensive methods to help give you relief and keep you on your feet. Some of the treatments that may be suggested to you are:

    • Conservatively trimming the toenail
    • Advice on footwear
    • Advice on nail cutting
    • Toe separators and pressure relief padding
    • Ingrown toenail surgery (to permanently remove the nail under local anaesthetic)
    • Antibiotics are not always required

Your "ingrown toenail" may be something else so if you are not sure or still having problems please make an appointment to see us at Irymple Foot Clinic!