Ingrown Toenails
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An ingrown toenail is when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. When the nail punctures the skin, bacteria can get into the area and cause infection. This will usually cause the presence of exudate or 'pus' in the area where the nail has ingrown into the skin accompanied by pain and redness. Ingrown toenails can be caused by ill-fitting shoes, trauma during activities that require repetitive pressure to the toes (ie: kicking a ball in soccor), incorrect cutting of the nails and sometimes the way your nail grows (ie: very c-shaped nails) can mean you are predisposed to this problem. Initial treatment of an ingrown toenail is to have your podiatrist cut the nail back correctly. You will be advised to see your general practitioner for antibiotic treatment if there is infection present. Another option for those who have presistent ingrown toenails is nail surgery. This is where your podiatrist will remove a section of the nail (the side of the nail that is causing the problem) under local anaesthetic. This procedure is very successful in permanently fixing the problem. If you have a problem with ingrown toenails, make an appointment and we will talk to you about your treatment options.
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