Ingrown Toenail

Dr. Taher Sobhy can effectively treat ingrown toenails and other conditions that affect the feet and hands. At Persona MD, the doctors and their staff offer services to many local residents in and around the Libertyville and Gurnee, Illinois area.

How Are Ingrown Toenails Treated?

Ingrown toenails can be extremely painful. They are caused by the corner or the edge of the toenail cutting through the flesh. This can result in pain or even skin infection. Depending on the severity and your physical condition, such as having diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, treatment can be as simple as trimming the toenail edge yourself or going to see your doctor to have your toenail partially removed.

Can Ingrown Toenails Be Prevented?

Ingrown toenails may be prevented by keeping the toenails well-groomed and wearing properly fitted shoes. If a person has had an ingrown toenail in the past, it is important to keep both the toenail and the cuticle trimmed accordingly. Keeping them at a modest length will prevent the nail from becoming overly sharp. If an ingrown toenail begins to appear, attempt to take control of the situation in the early stages to prevent it from worsening.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail to Return?

Much like other parts of the body, the growth patterns of a toenail tend to repeat themselves. If a toenail has been ingrown in the past, it will more than likely follow the same path again. If a toenail continues to become a problem, the doctor may partially remove the curved insides, preventing the inward growth of the toenail into your flesh. Some people have ingrown toenails that can be easily trimmed away. It is important in this situation to not trim the toenail too close. This may cause the ingrown toenail to worsen and produce more problems.

Can The Shoes I Wear Cause Ingrown Nails?

Absolutely. Wearing ill-fitting shoes increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails. They can crowd toes in a way that interferes with normal nail growth.