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As specialists in a wide variety of podiatric services, the team at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Cincinnati treats a wide variety of conditions. Pain in these parts of the body can significantly affect your quality of life, so they emphasize a dedicated, comprehensive approach to providing care. One fairly common condition taken on by their podiatrists is the ingrown toenail; this condition can lead to serious discomfort if left untreated, and patients with diabetes or poor circulation are particularly at risk.

So what do you need to know about ingrown toenails? Here's a quick breakdown:

  • Causes: Men and women are equally at risk of developing ingrown toenails, with teenagers and seniors slightly more at risk. Causes include cutting the nails incorrectly, irregularly shaped toenails, footwear that places extra pressure on the big toe, injury, postural issues, and poor foot hygiene.
  • Symptoms: Early on, you’ll see tender, swollen, or hard skin around the toenail, a build-up of pressure, and sometimes even fluid around the toenail. Symptoms worsen with infection, leading to red, swollen skin, pus formation, bleeding, and an overgrowth of skin around the toe.
  • Treatments: Non-infected ingrown toenails can be treated at home by soaking the feet in water three to four times a day, using a cotton ball with olive oil to push the skin aside, taking over the counter painkillers, and applying topical anesthetic to prevent infection. If an infection does occur, surgical treatment is necessary. The podiatric specialist will either remove part or all of the nail.
  • Prevention: To prevent this condition, trim nails straight across, don’t cut them too short, and wear shoes that fit properly.

If you are experiencing some of these problems or notice signs of infection, you will need to see a foot specialist. If you’re in southwest Ohio, the dedicated team at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Cincinnati is the most qualified to help. Learn more about this practice by checking out its website, and call (513) 769-4408 to schedule an appointment. 

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