With an ingrown toenail, the edge or tip of the nail grows into the skin of the nail fold. The skin becomes irritated and may become inflamed.

Sometimes, excess skin tissue develops next to the nail. Pus or wound fluid may also form.

An ingrown toenail is usually caused by a combination of nail shape, pressure and nail care.

Possible causes include:

Construction;
cutting nails too short or rounding them off;
pressure from tight shoes;
a rounded or curved nail;
picking at the edge of a fingernail;
impact or damage to the toe;
sweaty feet or soft skin;
an abnormal position of the toe.

The symptoms are often found on one side of the nail.

You may notice that:

the nail fold is red and painful;
the toe is sensitive in shoes;
the skin thickens next to the nail;
pus or fluid is coming out of the nail fold;
walking is painful;
the complaint keeps recurring.

Good nail care and well-fitting shoes help to prevent ingrown toenails. It is important to keep the skin around the nail dry and clean.

Getting enough exercise remains important for your general health. However, if you have a painful or inflamed toe, you may need to temporarily adjust the amount of strain you put on it. This will prevent the nail fold from becoming further irritated.

In cases of diabetes, a weakened immune system or reduced sensation in the feet, a rapid assessment is important.

In the case of minor symptoms, you can sometimes prevent the nail from causing further irritation. Do not cut too deeply into the corner of the nail.

You can:

wear loose-fitting shoes;
cut your nails straight across and not too short;
keep your toes clean and dry;
do not pick at or pull on the edge of the nail;
Do not take foot baths. This can actually soften the skin, which may make symptoms worse;
contact us if you experience redness, pus or increasing pain;
If you have diabetes or are experiencing a loss of sensation, seek advice promptly.

Our podiatrists We assess the nail and the nail fold. We also look at the cause, such as nail shape, footwear or toe position.

Treatment may consist of:

cleaning the nail fold;
removal of an ingrown nail tip;
placing a small piece of gauze or a device under the edge of the nail;
a nail brace for a rounded or curved nail;
editing advice;
shoe advice.

In the event of severe inflammation or recurring symptoms, you can treatment under anaesthesia If necessary, we will discuss with you what is appropriate.

Good shoes help to reduce pressure on the feet and toes. When buying new shoes, bear the following in mind:

Always try on both shoes;
Check that there are no stiff seams or stitching in the shoe;
Choose the correct length and width of the shoe;
Choose a sturdy sole to reduce the pressure under the foot.

Rondom Shoes

Good shoes can prevent many ailments. At Rondom Shoes We’ll help you choose shoes that suit your feet and your everyday life. This will help you reduce any discomfort and prevent new problems as far as possible.

At Rondom Schoenen, we use our knowledge and experience to put together a suitable range of shoes. In doing so, we take into account different foot shapes, needs and styles. We ensure there is a sufficient choice of good-quality shoes, across various price ranges.

Rondom Schoenen also has a knowledge base! Here you will find tips and information to help you choose the right shoes.

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