Ingrown toenails pose a discomforting and potentially serious issue when nails pierce the surrounding skin during their forward growth. Patients typically present with painful sensations around the nail plate, often accompanied by redness and signs of infection in the surrounding tissue. It is crucial not to disregard ingrown toenails, as they can progress to chronic infections, potentially requiring hospitalisation in severe cases. Consider the scenario of an open wound confined within a shoe, an environment characterised by darkness, dampness, and moisture – an ideal breeding ground for infections. Another source of discomfort for patients is the involuted toenail, distinct from the ingrown toenail. In this case, the nail does not breach the skin as in the case of an ingrown toenail. Instead, it exerts significant pressure on the side of the toe, causing extreme pain, especially when wearing tight shoes. Many instances of ingrown toenails stem from misguided attempts at self-treatment. Digging down the side of the nail and attempting to extract nail fragments is not advisable. Some ingrown nails result from the natural shape of the nail, particularly those with a pronounced "fan" shape. Over time, these nails may puncture the skin, leading to the development of an ingrown toenail. Attempting self-treatment can exacerbate the issue, making professional intervention necessary. Contrary to popular belief, creating a V-shaped cut at the end of the nail does not prevent ingrown toenails; instead, it can often worsen the problem, debunking this as a myth. At Brighton Podiatry, our approach involves the precise removal of the offending nail spike. If successful, we may prescribe antibiotics to address the concurrent infection. However, if the problem persists or the ingrown nail is too severe, we may recommend a partial nail avulsion procedure (PNA). This procedure entails the removal of a small section of the nail, accompanied by the destruction of the cells responsible for the problematic growth. By preventing the regrowth of this section, the likelihood of future issues with the same nail is minimised. Contrary to common perceptions, undergoing a partial nail avulsion procedure is not as painful as many patients anticipate. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by the relatively minimal discomfort associated with the process. The key to a successful resolution is not delaying seeking professional advice. Procrastination increases the likelihood of requiring a more extensive intervention, emphasising the importance of early intervention for optimal outcomes. In conclusion, ingrown toenails and related conditions necessitate careful attention and proper professional care. Understanding the causes and avoiding self-treatment methods that can exacerbate the problem are crucial for maintaining foot health. Brighton Podiatry strives to provide effective and timely interventions, from precise nail spike removal to advanced procedures like partial nail avulsion, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care for their specific conditions. Remember, timely consultation is the key to preventing prolonged discomfort and potential complications associated with ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenail some that present are worse than others dont leave it too long before seeking treatment.
Ingrown Toenail 1 Side
Ingrown Toenail Both Sides
Ingrown Toenail
