The condition of ingrown toenails occurs during the nail growth when they curl inwards and pinch into the surrounding soft tissue. The co-existing symptoms are redness, inflammation of the wall of the nail with pus-like discharge and also granulation called proud flesh. Damage to the soft tissue causes severe pain especially due to pressure. In consequence the person suffering from ingrown toenails is complaining of more and more severe pain which causes limping or even inability to walk. Inward folding nails-tubular nails are cutting into the soft tissue-unilaterally or bilaterally, but they do not cause inflammation of the wall of the nail as it is in the case of ingrown toenails.
The causes of ingrown or inward folding toenails
- genetical occupational-putting too much weight on the feet (sportsmen)
- hallux valgus
- continuous cutting of lateral edges of the nail plates
- cutting nail plates improperly i.e. cutting it round instead of cutting it straight
- too tight shoes
- pointed toe high-heels
- a build-up of fluid in the area surrounding the toe
- an overgrowth of skin around the affected toe bleeding
- white or yellow pus coming from the affected area
In the podiatry clinic the special corrective buckles are used for ingrown or inwards folding nails in order to effectively correct the growth of the nail plate. Such therapy might last even for a few months. Contrary to some drastic surgical procedures, this is a non-invasive procedure. 100% patients are satisfied with the final outcome.
