Onychocryptosis, commonly known as ingrown toenails, tend to occur on the big toes, but it can affect all the little toes too. The toenail can curve into the skin or the skin may grow thickly around it, causing pain, inflammation, and even bacterial or fungal infections.

What causes you to get ingrown toenails?

• Genetics: Curved toes or toenails can be a hereditary trait. When the toes are curled into each other, the pressure applied by the other toes can cause the nail to grow down and into the skin. People with curved toenails have a natural growth direction downward into the skin.
• Injuries: Blunt trauma to the toenail can leave you with a split, broken toenail, or none at all. When there is an injury involving excessive long-term swelling, the toenail can grow into the swollen skin. For broken or removed toenails, they may grow in as ingrown toenails, since the nail is so short to begin with and the skin around can be raised.
• Constant pressure from shoes: Wearing shoes that are too tight puts pressure on the top or front of the toes. The pressure can cause the nail to grown in such a way that they curve into the skin.
• Improper nail cutting: Toenails should be cut straight across instead of round to prevent ingrown toenails. While the option for rounded toenails might be tempting at the nail salon, make sure you keep in mind the risks, especially if you’re prone to getting ingrown toenails.
• Fungal toenails are usually characterized by hardened toenails, which can grow deeply into the skin.

The best way to deal with ingrown toenails is to be vigilant and prevent them from occurring if you can. Remember to trim your toenails straight across, wear shoes that are not too tight, reduce swelling for any injuries, and treat fungal or bacterial infections quickly.

Do you suffer from painful ingrown toenails? Or maybe you don’t experience pain, but there is uncomfortable pressure that you have to deal with each day. We’re here to help! At Texas Foot Works, we will work with you to find the best solutions for your problems with ingrown toenails. It’s best not to try to pry out your toenails if they are ingrown, as you may further agitate them or cause infection. Our podiatrist, Dr. Jonathan M. Kletz can help you at any of our Abrams (Dallas), Athens, and Gun Barrell City, TX offices. Make an appointment today so that he can help relieve your pain.