An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition often affects the big toe and can lead to discomfort, or even difficulty walking. Common symptoms include redness, tenderness, and drainage if the area becomes infected. Older adults are more likely to develop ingrown toenails due to changes in nail growth, reduced circulation, or difficulty trimming nails properly. Additionally, conditions like arthritis or poor mobility can make it harder to manage foot care. Treatment for ingrown toenails often involves soaking the foot, wearing loose shoes, and gently lifting the nail to relieve pressure. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may need to trim or remove part of the nail and, if needed, prescribe antibiotics for infection. If you have an ingrown toenail, especially as you age, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care and relief.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Jordan S. Steinberg, DPM of Florham Park Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Florham Park, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.