Ingrown Toenails: Causes And Prevention Tips
There is certainly truth to the saying “when your feet hurt, your whole body hurts.” It’s something that we can all agree on because there’s a good chance that all of us have had to deal with sore, tired or achy feet at some point. And when the discomfort is the result of an ingrown toenail, the discomfort can be nearly all-consuming. Today Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC are sharing their tips for dealing with this condition.
Understanding the causes of this painful condition and avoiding it should be high on your priority list, especially when this becomes a recurring issue. The question of why some people tend to have more problems with ingrown toenails than others may not have a simple answer, but the condition is typically easy to recognize.
When the nail grows both in length and to the side, it penetrates the skin, creating a very tender area. The end of the toe can then become inflamed and even result in bleeding.
Common Causes For Ingrown Toenails
Several things can cause ingrown toenails; following are some of the most common:
· Not cutting nails straight across or trimming them too short;
· Feet not being kept clean and dry;
· Poor posture that results in uneven pressure on a certain area of the foot;
· Trauma or injury to the toe area;
· Recurring contact, such as in sports activities;
· Footwear that doesn’t fit properly.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
The most common cause of ingrown toenails is footwear that does not fit properly or stockings and socks that are too tight. Younger people in particular need to have their shoes often examined because of growth spurts can rapidly lead to toes being stuffed into a space that is no longer sufficient.
Your number one weapon is to be proactive by paying close attention to warning signs, such as redness, pain or obvious fluid buildup. Be sure to wear the right shoe for your foot and the activity you are engaging in. And lastly, combine that awareness with regularly scheduled visits to your podiatrist.
It takes just one experience with an ingrown toenail to help you fully understand the impact it can have on daily life. Let Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC not only help you address any issues you may be experiencing but also guide you in best preventative practices.
Call our office today at (301) 762-3338 to schedule an appointment or schedule your visit online.
