Who can get an Ingrown Toenail?

• People who cut their nails too short.
• People who wear shoes that are too tight.
• Active people who are prone to sweaty feet.
• People who have foot deformities.
• People with inherited naturally wide nails.

If left untreated any infection can spread to the rest of the foot, it is best to seek treatment as soon as possible.

How do I prevent ingrown toenails?

• Cut your toenails straight across, avoid cutting down the sides.
• Ensure the corner of the nail is visible over the skin after cutting.
• Rotate footwear to reduce the chance of moist skin on the feet.
• Wear socks that are made from moisture wicking or breathable materials.

What treatments are available for Ingrown Toenails?

The offending section of nail can often be removed simply by a podiatrist without any discomfort. However, if it is painful to touch, a Podiatrist can use a local anesthetic so that the removal will be painless. A dressing may be required or antibiotic therapy if there was an infection present.

A permanent safe procedure of a partial or complete nail removal can also be performed, with the aim of preventing the nail regrowing, or part of the nail from regrowing. This will also involve a local anesthetic. Commonly a chemical is used to destroy the cells responsible for the growth of the nail. This procedure is shown to be over 97% successful. There will be a period of re-dressings required, and healing time depends upon the individual, but it rarely exceeds 6 weeks. Partial nail avulsions have a very good cosmetic result in many cases, and it can be difficult to tell that the procedure has been done after a year in many cases.