An ingrown toenail is one of the most painful conditions that may affect your foot and is more prevalent than you might believe. The condition develops once the edge of one of your toenails develops into the skin, generating pain and irritation. Left untreated, the nail will proceed to penetrate the skin and may develop an infection. Therefore, it is important to always be on the lookout for any warning signs of ingrown toenails Fort Worth. Nonetheless, ingrown toenails are also preventable, and by understanding the causes of this foot condition, you can take steps to mitigate your risk factors. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Inappropriate-Fitting Footwear
Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate space for your toes and feet could lead to various issues, including ingrown toenails. Overly tight, short, or narrow footwear can cause ingrown toenails.
Kids and adolescents are susceptible to ingrown toenails as their feet grow rapidly. Inspect your kid’s shoes frequently to ensure there is sufficient room and that their shoes remain properly fit as they develop.
2. Injury
Foot trauma can modify the nail’s form, rendering it more susceptible to ingrowth. Permanent form changes occur, causing the margins of the toenail to dig into the flesh. Examples of foot trauma include accidentally kicking a hard object, stubbing the toe, heavy objects falling on the toe, and repetitive pressure from sports such as jogging.
3. Cutting Toenails Too Short
Pedicures could enhance the look of the nails on your feet. Nonetheless, aggressive nail trimming might result in ingrown toenails. If you receive pedicures frequently, it is crucial to see a competent nail technician and mention any ingrown toenail concerns so that your provider can take better care of your nails.
4. Conditions That Inhibit Blood Flow
Peripheral artery disease and diabetes can lead to the formation of ingrown toenails by reducing blood supply to the foot. Inform your physician if you smoke or have a chronic illness affecting blood flow to the feet and legs.
5. Genetic Predisposition
The form of your toenails and fingernails is inherited from your parents. Some individuals have fairly flat toenails that rarely become ingrown, but others are not so fortunate.
Having curved or crescent-shaped nails can increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails. These nail forms naturally curve into the toes’ skin, but careful nail trimming could help prevent ingrown toenails.
6. Increased Nail Thickness
Thicker toenails tend to be more fragile; thus, their edges might split more readily, thereby raising the likelihood of an ingrown toenail. Additionally, thicker toenails exert more stress on the skin adjacent to the nail.
7. Unventilated Shoes and Poor Foot Hygiene
Toenails absorb moisture, allowing them to weaken and change form under the constant wet environment of shoes without ventilation. This issue will prompt the nail to become more curved with time. Moreover, poor foot hygiene makes an individual susceptible to nail thickening and fungal infections, which could contribute to ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenails are a troublesome and, sadly, prevalent concern for many patients. If not treated, an ingrown toenail can lead to an infection that can spread to the bone. Typically, soaking the affected nail will alleviate discomfort in only several days. You should consult a doctor for more comprehensive therapy if it does not improve. Your foot doctor might suggest antibiotics, a toe brace, more comfy shoes, antibiotic creams, and even pain medications alleviate discomfort. Do not attempt to remove the ingrown nail on your own.
