Ingrown toenail facts
- An ingrown toenail is a common, often unpleasant condition frequently seen in the big toenail.
- Athletes commonly suffer from ingrown toenails.
- Improper shoe gear and toe injuries are frequently associated with ingrown toenails.
- It is not unusual for an ingrown toenail to recur unless treated appropriately.
- Conservative treatments include soaks, elevation, proper nail cutting, and good foot hygiene. Medical treatment is not always required. Oral antibiotics are sometimes required as a treatment if infection is present. A health care professional can perform a minor toenail procedure if the problem is severe or recurrent.
What are ingrown toenails?
An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) is caused by the pressure from the ingrowth of the nail edge into the skin of the toe. Once the edge of the nail breaks through the skin, it produces inflammation. Initially presenting as a minor discomfort, it may progress into an infection in the adjacent skin (cellulitis) and/or become a reoccurring problem. Ingrown toenails most commonly affect the large (great) toes.