Local Phoenix Foot and Ankle Specialist Offers Helpful Tips on Ingrown Toenails
Phoenix, AZ, April 26, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Suzanne Abraham, DPM with Phoenix Foot & Ankle Associates PC, raises awareness regarding ingrown toenails by discussing ways to avoid and treat the condition.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail curves and grows into the skin, usually at the sides of the nail. This may cause pain and irritation. If the skin is broken due to the ingrown toenail, a bacterial infection could occur. If you are experiencing drainage or foul odor, this could be an indication of an infection, but oftentimes infections may also be present without symptoms.
Causes
Ingrown toenails can be caused by trauma from running or stubbing the toe, improper trimming, improperly sized footwear and even heredity. Fungal infections can also cause ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Although there are some instances where an ingrown toenail can be treated at home, it is discouraged if an infection is suspected. It is also discouraged if you have a medical condition (such as diabetes, nerve damage or poor circulation) that puts feet at risk. If none of the above cases apply to your situation, you can soak your foot in room temperature water and gently massage the side of your toes by the nail bed to reduce inflammation. If you are in need of medical attention, there are a number of things that can be done to fix an ingrown toenail such as antibiotics for an infection or minor surgery that removes the problem nail.
Prevention
To prevent ingrown toenails, be sure to trim your nails in a straight line, and don’t trim them too short. You should also avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose in the toe area.
Information modified from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Dr. Abraham offers patients a flexible schedule, with same day appointments available. For more information on Dr. Abraham, or to schedule an appointment to get an ingrown toenail evaluated, call 602.251.3113 or visit www.phoenixfoot.com.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail curves and grows into the skin, usually at the sides of the nail. This may cause pain and irritation. If the skin is broken due to the ingrown toenail, a bacterial infection could occur. If you are experiencing drainage or foul odor, this could be an indication of an infection, but oftentimes infections may also be present without symptoms.
Causes
Ingrown toenails can be caused by trauma from running or stubbing the toe, improper trimming, improperly sized footwear and even heredity. Fungal infections can also cause ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Although there are some instances where an ingrown toenail can be treated at home, it is discouraged if an infection is suspected. It is also discouraged if you have a medical condition (such as diabetes, nerve damage or poor circulation) that puts feet at risk. If none of the above cases apply to your situation, you can soak your foot in room temperature water and gently massage the side of your toes by the nail bed to reduce inflammation. If you are in need of medical attention, there are a number of things that can be done to fix an ingrown toenail such as antibiotics for an infection or minor surgery that removes the problem nail.
Prevention
To prevent ingrown toenails, be sure to trim your nails in a straight line, and don’t trim them too short. You should also avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose in the toe area.
Information modified from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Dr. Abraham offers patients a flexible schedule, with same day appointments available. For more information on Dr. Abraham, or to schedule an appointment to get an ingrown toenail evaluated, call 602.251.3113 or visit www.phoenixfoot.com.
Contact
Phoenix Foot and Ankle Associates, PC
Karen J Cummings
(602) 251-3113
http://www.phoenixfoot.com/index.html
Karen J Cummings
(602) 251-3113
http://www.phoenixfoot.com/index.html
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