Experts state that ingrown toenails, a common foot health problem especially frequently seen in the big toe and capable of leading to severe pain and infection over time, often arise due to incorrect nail trimming habits, improper shoe selection, or genetic factors, significantly affecting daily quality of life.
Podologist Meldağ Turhan, emphasizing that one of the most important causes of ingrown toenails is incorrect nail trimming habits, recommended that to prevent ingrown toenails, nails should be cut straight, not rounded, not cut too short, and sharp edges should be filed.
Üsküdar Üniversitesi Health Services Vocational School Podology Department Lecturer Meldağ Turhan shared important information regarding the causes, treatment methods, and prevention of ingrown toenails.
Ingrown Toenails Are Frequently Seen in the Big Toe
Podologist Meldağ Turhan said that ingrown toenails are a common foot health problem, especially frequently seen in the big toe, and can lead to severe pain and infection over time. “This condition, which significantly affects the daily quality of life, generally arises due to incorrect nail trimming habits, improper shoe selection, or genetic factors,” she stated.
The Most Common Causes of Ingrown Toenail Formation…
Turhan stated that ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail embeds into the skin, causing inflammation, and listed the most common causes as follows:
- Incorrect Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or in an oval shape can lead to the nail growing into the flesh.
- Narrow or Tight Shoes: Especially narrow-toed or hard-soled shoes exert pressure on the toes, making it easier for the nail to embed into the skin.
- Genetic Factors: The likelihood of ingrown toenails is higher in individuals with a family history of the problem.
- Traumas: Impacts to the foot or frequent pressure on the nail can increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Excessive Sweating and Lack of Hygiene: In moist and airless feet, the risk of infection increases, which can worsen the ingrown toenail.
Tight, Narrow, High-Heeled Shoes Disrupt Nail Growth Direction!
Turhan also pointed out factors that trigger ingrown toenails, stating, “Certain habits and environmental factors can further exacerbate ingrown toenails. Incorrect shoe selection; tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes disrupt the natural growth direction of nails. Nail trimming errors; cutting nails too short or rounded can cause the nail to grow into the skin. Walking style: flat feet or gait abnormalities increase the risk of ingrown toenails by applying extra pressure to the nails. Inadequate foot hygiene; feet that are not regularly washed or properly dried facilitate the formation of infection around the ingrown nail.”
How Is an Ingrown Toenail Diagnosed?
Turhan noted that ingrown toenails can usually be diagnosed visually, stating, “Podologists diagnose by evaluating the following symptoms: redness and swelling at the nail edge, signs of inflammation or infection (discharge, bad odor), pain when walking or touched, and hardened tissue at the nail edge. If there is a suspicion of infection, podologists conduct a detailed examination to assess the situation and may sometimes seek assistance in collaboration with physicians by providing multidisciplinary referrals.”
The Most Common Treatment Methods for Ingrown Toenails…
Turhan also said that different methods can be applied in the treatment of ingrown toenails, stating that while simple methods may suffice in the early stages, surgical intervention may be necessary in advanced cases.
Meldağ Turhan also highlighted methods that can be applied at home, saying, “Antiseptic use; an antiseptic can be applied around the nail to prevent infection. Correct shoe selection; wearing wide-toed and comfortable shoes reduces pressure on the nail.”
Which Methods Do Podologists Use in Ingrown Toenail Treatment?
Lecturer Meldağ Turhan stated that if an ingrown toenail has progressed or inflammation has occurred, one should consult a podologist, and continued as follows:
“Podologists apply the following techniques: orthonyx method; the ingrown nail's progression is prevented by guiding the nail with a nail brace application. Medical pedicure; the area around the nail is cleaned with professional devices to reduce the risk of infection. Tampon methods; using special materials to lift the ingrown part away from the nail bed.”
Nail Trimming Techniques Are Important for Ingrown Toenails!
Turhan, emphasizing that one of the most important causes of ingrown toenails is incorrect nail trimming habits, also warned, “To prevent ingrown toenails, cut your nails straight, not rounded; do not cut them too short, as cutting the edges deeply can lead to ingrown nails. File sharp edges; gently file pointed tips to prevent skin damage.”
Turhan also explained that podologists can collaborate with dermatologists and general surgeons in the treatment of ingrown toenails, stating, “In cases where the infection has progressed or become chronic, dermatologists may recommend antibiotic or antiseptic treatments. In very advanced cases, surgical procedures may be performed by surgeons or orthopedists.”
Professional Support Solves the Problem
Turhan concluded by stating that ingrown toenails are a problem that can negatively affect daily life but can be easily prevented with early measures, saying, “You can minimize the risk of ingrown toenails with correct nail trimming, appropriate shoe selection, and regular foot care. If you notice signs of an ingrown toenail, it is important to consult a podologist for professional support before an infection develops. Remember, healthy feet directly affect your quality of life.”