What are Ingrown nails?

Ingrown toenails (Onychocryptosis) can be incredibly painful, and become inflamed or infected, where the nail grows so that it cuts into one or both sides of the nail bed. There may be an overgrowth of tissue (hypergranulation) around the nail due to irritation of the wound. Some of the causes include direct trauma to the toenail; sensitivity to tight footwear and poor nail cutting technique. Swollen toes or sweaty feet can weaken the skin around the nail.

Immediate treatment at home includes bathing the foot in warm, heavily salted water while waiting to attend your appointment. This helps in softening the nail and keeping infection at bay. At the clinic I can remove the part or spike of the nail that is causing the problem, and dress the toe if necessary. I will also advise you on nail care which can prevent recurring problems. Involuted nails are difficult to cut at times and can become ingrown if not managed correctly.