Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding flesh of the toe causing redness, swelling and discomfort. Any toenail can become ingrown, but it’s the big toe most often affected. Sometimes a poorly cut toenail is to blame – nails should be trimmed straight across, not rounded. In other cases, a genetically wider or more curved nail causes the issue.

Ingrown toenails might occur for other reasons. In some cases, tight-fitting shoes or high heels compress the toes together encouraging the nail to grow crooked. A fungal infection can make the toenail wider and thicker causing the issue. Any activity that damages the toenail (such as soccer or running) can also begin the process.

Depending on the severity, ingrown toenails can be quite painful and should be treated to avoid infection or worsening pain.

Symptoms and risks

Ingrown toenails cause pain, redness and swelling at the edge of the toenail. Discomfort level can depend upon whether the nail is partially or fully growing into the skin. Pain may be severe enough to make walking or bearing weight difficult. Ingrown toenails also often result in infection as the nail breaks the skin barrier, allowing harmful bacteria to enter. People with diabetes are at greater risk of complications from ingrown toenails.

See a specialist

If discomfort is disrupting your ability to walk or enjoy sports, see a doctor of podiatric medicine before the problem worsens. If ingrown toenails are a recurring issue, visit the Orleans Dynamic Foot Clinic for an evaluation. We can help identify the underlying cause and suggest preventative measures.

Warts and feet

Warts are caused by the HPV virus. The virus enters through any small opening in the skin’s surface. Warts on the sole of the foot are known as plantar warts. Because walking puts pressure on them, they can be very painful.

Warts are passed from one person to another, either by direct touch or sharing things like socks or shoes. Walking barefoot in a place where the virus may lurk – warm, moist and busy environments like pools or locker rooms – is another way they can be contracted.

Warts should be dealt with before they spread or cause pain. Consult a doctor of podiatric medicine for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms and treatments

Plantar warts are of varying colour – flesh, white, tan or pink. They may have a cauliflower texture and small black dots or lines. They should not be confused with callouses or corns, which are patches of thick skin.

Avoid self-diagnosis – be sure your bumps are correctly identified before starting any treatment. Your doctor of podiatric medicine is best able to do that. Warts are stubborn and usually require intervention.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is an infection caused by a fungus rather than a virus. It usually strikes between the toes. If you develop a scaly rash that itches, stings or burns it may be athlete’s foot.

Preventing athlete’s foot is akin to preventing warts. The fungus is contagious. Keep your feet clean and dry and avoid contact with contaminated areas – floors, footwear or clothing. After ruling out other conditions, a doctor of podiatric medicine will usually prescribe an antifungal cream or medication.

Services

Orthotics and pain

We use state-of-the-art technology and advanced orthotics to treat foot and related body pain.

Bunions and Morton’s neuroma

Don’t let these painful conditions interfere with your performance or enjoyment of life. Learn more and book a consultation with our Doctors of Podiatric Medicine.

Plantar fasciitis and flat feet

Two common foot conditions – sometimes painful, often related. Learn how we can help.

Frequently asked questions

How much time does it take to recover from ingrown toenail surgery?

The usual recovery period varies between a week and a month. Removal of a nail border is done under local anesthesia in our office. The patient wears an open-toe shoe until the toe heals. If the ingrown toenail is reoccurring, the nail border may need to be permanently removed via a special medication to eliminate the cells that grow the nail.

How often should I see my podiatrist if I have a condition?

Proper care of your feet is a key element to preventing foot infections. Patients with diabetes, circulation disorders, numbness, or any type of immune system depression should be evaluated by a podiatrist at least every six months, if not more often, to prevent foot problems from occurring. Foot care includes thorough examination of skin, circulation, and nerve function; treatment of nails and calluses if appropriate; and advice about proper shoes, socks, and activity.

NEED AN APPOINTMENT ?