For many people around the world, ingrown toenails seem to be a common occurrence, where others maybe have experienced it a few times if at all. Ingrown toenails can be uncomfortable at the least, but are usually also painful, especially if they become infected. Today, we at Belmont Anderson and Associates would like to expound on ingrown toenails.
Does Running & Playing Sports Cause Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenail is a common condition often seen in the big toenail. Typically those that suffer from this condition are more commonly athletes. Between toe injuries, ill-fitting shoes, and improper shoe gear; ingrown toenails are rather common place. Unless properly treated, ingrown toenails will usually recur. Where medical treatment is always required, basic care includes soaks, elevation, and excellent foot hygiene. If an infection has set in, an oral antibiotic may be required and in rare cases, minor toenail surgery.
What is Onychocryptosis?
An ingrown toenail is the result of pressure from the in-growth of the nail edge into the skin of the toe. Inflammation is produced once the edge of the nail breaks through the skin. Initially, minor discomfort is the byproduct, but it may progress into an infection in the adjacent skin and become a reoccurring problem. Commonly affecting the large toes, ingrown toenails can affect any toe. An ingrown toenail’s formal medical name is onychocryptosis.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
The primary causes of an ingrown toenail are improper trimming of the toenail, a hereditary condition, and improper shoe fitting as previously mentioned. Injury by overly aggressive pedicures and nail picking can also result in an ingrown toenail. The risk of ingrown toenails can increase with more of the following that applies to you:
– Abnormal gait
– Abnormally long toes
– Arthritis
– Athletic activities ,especially stop and go sports like tennis, soccer, and basketball for example
– Bony or soft-tissue tumors of the toes
– Congenital toenail deformity
– Diabetes
– Edema of the lower extremities
– Foot or toe deformities; for example: bunions and hammertoes
– Fungus infection of the nails
– Hyperhidrosis, which is feet that excessively sweat
– Improper shoe gear that fits too small or too big
– Obesity
– Poor foot hygiene
– Repetitive pressure or trauma to the feet
Foot Fungus & Bacterial Infections
If the ingrown toenail becomes infected, it is because of the feet creating a warm, moist environment perfect for a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Most bacteria and fungi commonly include Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, dermatophytes, Candida, and Trichophyton. When the nail grows into the skin, it causes a break in the skin where these organisms can invade the area and cause an infection. Treatment for these infections starts with maintaining healthy toenails and feet.
Signs & Symptoms of Ingrown Toe Nails
Redness, pain and swelling are the signs and symptoms of an ingrown toenail. Pus drainage can also be present, but isn’t always; the puss may be a clear yellowish color if an infection is present. In most cases, ingrown toenails do not require medical treatment, but if you are experiencing chronic, painful, and recurring ingrown toenails contact Belmont Anderson and Associates and let our team remedy your ingrown toenails and other foot problems.