Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown Toenails
June 2, 2019 Lynne Luck Leave a comment

What is an ingrown toenail? An ingrown toenail occurs when your nail curves and starts growing into your skin along the side of the toe. Ingrown toenails are common and most likely affect the big toe but any toenail can become ingrown. Enquire now for our Sydney podiatrist today.

Why do you get ingrown toenails? Wearing tight shoes, cutting your toenails incorrectly or trauma to your toenail such as dropping something heavy on your toe or kicking an object, could be one of the reasons for developing this common problem.

What are the symptoms? Pain on touch, pressure or movement, redness and swelling are common symptoms of ingrown toenails. In some cases, an ingrown toenail can become infected. It is therefore important to have the ingrown nail treated once these signs become evident.

What are the treatments? In some cases, cutting the toenail, soaking your feet in a warm salty, bath or topical antibiotic ointment from your GP can help to resolve the problem. But, if symptoms persist for more than two weeks or if an infection develops, then you should contact a podiatrist for professional treatment. People with diabetes or circulation problems should see a podiatrist as soon as they develop any symptoms since they are at greater risk for developing complications.

If you would like more information or if you would like to book an appointment, please call us on (02) 9680 3646.