Problem Afoot: Ingrown Nails

The constant chaffing and pressure we subject our feet to every day can lead to painful problems. Podiatrists advise on what we can do to take better care of our feet.

Ingrown nails

They happen when nails cut into or irritate the nail bed, causing pain, swelling and inflammation. If the skin breaks, infection can occur. In chronic cases, the flesh on the sides of the nail may bleed when touched.

How it happens

• The most common cause is when people cut the nails too deeply, encouraging the skin next to the nail to fold over the nail.
• Repeated trauma, such as you stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it, can alter the shape of the nails.
• Repeated actions like kicking an object can also cause this problem.
• Shoes that are tight around the toe area can aggravate the condition.
• Sportsmen, especially footballers, are prone to getting this condition.
• Some people are also genetically predisposed to having ingrown nails.

Treatment

• Place feet in a salt bath to reduce the inflammation. Antibiotics may be given if infection has set in.
• A visit to the podiatrist may be needed to remove part of the offending nail.
• What to note: Nails should be cut straight across and should not be too short. Sharp edges should be filed. Ingrown nails should not be trimmed by pedicurists.
• Avoid shoes that are too small or tight.

 Ref: V10