An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail grows into your skin, causing discomfort. If you don’t address the problem, it could lead to infection or other consequences. That’s why it’s important to schedule an appointment with a foot care specialist when you’re suffering from one. A foot doctor will offer advice and treatment to alleviate your pain and prevent complications.

The following is some essential info you should know about this condition, including what causes it and how you can treat it.

The Causes, Consequences, & Treatment Of Ingrown Toenails

Causes

Numerous factors contribute to a person developing this problem. The shape of their feet is a major one. If you have a flattened arch, excessive pressure is placed on certain toenails.

You might also develop an ingrown toenail if you wear shoes that are too tight, or if you’ve suffered a foot injury recently. If you’ve recently suffered toe damage, wear shoes with ample room for your toes. 

Consequences

Pain is just one negative effect of this condition. If left untreated, you’re also likely to develop an infection. Some people even suffer sprains or similar joint injuries as a result of ingrown toenails. They try to walk in a manner that reduces pressure on the toenail but often ends up stressing their joints. Instead of ignoring the pain, see a foot specialist as soon as possible to deal with the problem. 

Treatment

Sometimes, it’s possible to treat the problem by trimming away the part of the toenail that’s growing into your skin. However, for more substantial issues, a foot doctor may recommend completely removing the nail border. They’ll use numbing medicine to prevent any discomfort during the procedure.

Other options include wearing orthotics to reduce stress on key areas of your feet, learning about proper nail trimming habits, and more. To avoid any health problems related to this issue, contact a specialist and ask for their recommendations.

Although it can be easy to put off, don’t wait to get care for any foot-related issues. If you need ingrown toenail treatment in the Rochester, NY area, you need Westside Podiatry Group. With nearly four decades of experience, they’ll make sure you get the care you need. Contact them online to learn more about making an appointment, or call (585) 225-2290.