An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge or corner of a nail grows into the surrounding skin. This most frequently affects the big toe, where the nail plate pierces the soft tissue of the nail fold. At Cherry Creek Foot and Ankle Clinic in Denver, CO, Florin Costache, DPM, and Kevin Derickson, DPM, identify several factors that lead to this painful condition. Common causes include trimming nails too short or rounding the edges, wearing tight-fitting shoes that compress the toes, or sustaining a direct injury to the foot. Genetic predispositions, such as naturally curved or fan-shaped nails, also make some individuals more susceptible to recurrence.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Infection
The early stages of ingrown toenails typically involve tenderness, redness, and slight swelling along the side of the nail. As the nail continues to grow deeper into the flesh, the body responds with an inflammatory reaction. If the skin is breached, bacteria can enter the area, leading to an infection marked by increased throbbing pain, pus drainage, and the growth of extra tissue known as granulation tissue. Florin Costache, DPM, and Kevin Derickson, DPM, emphasize that patients with diabetes or poor circulation should seek professional care at the first sign of redness, as minor nail issues can quickly escalate into serious health complications.
Professional Treatment and Permanent Solutions
While mild cases might temporarily improve with home soaking, persistent or infected ingrown toenails require clinical intervention. In our Denver, CO, office, we provide several options to resolve the problem. For immediate relief, a podiatrist can perform a partial nail avulsion, which involves numbing the toe and removing the ingrown portion of the nail. For patients who suffer from chronic ingrown toenails, Florin Costache, DPM, and Kevin Derickson, DPM, may recommend a permanent procedure in which a chemical agent is used to prevent the specific edge of the nail from growing back. This provides a long-term solution without significantly altering the appearance of the toe.
Prevention Strategies for Healthier Feet
Preventing ingrown toenails starts with proper grooming habits and footwear choices. It is essential to cut your toenails straight across and avoid tapering the corners. Ensure your shoes have a wide toe box that allows your toes to move freely without being pushed together. At Cherry Creek Foot and Ankle Clinic, we help patients understand their foot mechanics to prevent repetitive trauma. By maintaining these simple habits and seeking prompt care from a podiatrist when issues arise, residents of Denver, CO, can avoid the debilitating pain of nail infections.
If you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail, we can remove it and reduce the risk of it returning. Schedule an appointment by calling (303) 355-1695.
