An ingrown toenail occurs when one of your nails grows into the skin of the toe. This often results in intense discomfort, redness, and soreness, and over time, the area can develop an infection. While a podiatrist can treat the issue after it develops, the best method is preventing your toenails from growing in this way. Below are several reasons this occurs to help you avoid it.

What Leads to Ingrown Toenails?

1. Improper Trimming

When trimming your toenails, always cut straight across the nail rather than tapering the sides. Also, leave a little bit of the white part of the nail at the end, as this ensures you don't cut too much off. Tapering encourages the nail to grow toward the sides of the nailbed, while trimming too short allows the skin to fold itself over the end of the nail. Both of these issues cause the nail to grow into the skin.

2. Pressure From Shoes & Socks

If you wear tight footwear, the socks and shoes can push the skin of the toe against the edge of the nail or press the nail down into the skin. This is why podiatrists often treat ingrown toenails on the big toe, as this appendage often contacts the end of shoes that are too small. Children also have a higher risk of developing this condition because their feet grow quickly, which means they may outgrow their shoes more often. Always check how your footwear fits, and replace any small shoes and tight socks with roomier options.

3. Sudden Injury or Infection

When your toe is injured or you have an infection in the area, the swelling increases the risk that the nail will press against the skin. Stubbing your toe or dropping something on your foot can also leave the nail with a jagged edge or cause it to grow at an awkward angle. These issues damage the foot and contribute to ingrown toenails, especially if you are wearing shoes that are too small or cut the nails improperly.

If you need help treating an ingrown toenail, contact St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samual T. Wood-DPM LLC. With locations in Florissant and St. Peters, MO, he has been serving residents throughout St. Charles and St. Louis counties for more than 20 years. This board-certified podiatrist handles everything from heel pain and bunions to diabetic foot care and plantar warts. Call (636) 720-0190 to schedule an appointment, and visit them online to learn more about their services.