Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail is a common condition that involves the corner of the nail growing into the skin of the toe, leading to pain, swelling and possible infection. The condition may affect any toe, but is most common on the big toe. An ingrown nail can develop from a variety of different factors including; improper nail trimming, poor fitting shoes, trauma, heredity, or other nail conditions. Although an ingrown toenail is not normally a serious condition, it is important for patients to seek proper medical treatment in order to prevent infection. Symptoms of an ingrown nail are pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. Sometimes a minor surgical procedure, generally performed in the office, will ease the pain and remove the offending nail border. If the nail becomes ingrown again, it may require permanent removal of the nail root.