An ingrown toe nail is sometimes referred to by doctors as Onychocryptosis or Unguis incarnates, Latin terms referring to the irritation or infection and its location. The most common cause of the condition, by far, is tight footwear.

Tight shoes, especially those with pointy toes, put pressure on the tops and sides of the toenails. This continuous "squeezing" action causes the nail to curve under and grow into the soft tissue and skin folds that surround the nail. Tight stockings can cause the same problem.

Closed toe shoes contribute to a damp environment that softens the nail plate, which is why it begins to "bend" around the edges. The moisture is absorbed by the keratin in the skin's epidermis, which causes swelling and makes the skin more easily damaged.

The damp, dark environment contributes to the growth of bacteria and fungus, as well. So, infections are common. People that have poor circulation are at the greatest risk of infection, because the immune system's white blood cells cannot reach the site of the injury.

Some people are more likely to suffer from an ingrown toe nail, because of genetics or family history. If you are aware that your parents had problems with their toenails, it is important to take preventative action.

Improper trimming of any nails, whether they are on the toes or fingers, can cause them to cut into the fold of skin that surrounds them. Using scissors, rather than perfectly aligned clippers, makes it more likely that you will cut the nail at an angle.

If the lower blade is farther away from the toe than the upper blade, the nail will turn inwards. So, always use clippers, rather than manicure scissors or, better yet, get regular pedicures and see a podiatrist for any problems.

Stubbed or injured toes are more likely to develop an ingrown toe nail. So, it is important to wear protective shoes, whenever you are in an environment where something could fall on your feet.

Of course, if you already have an ingrown toe nail, your primary concern is treatment. How can you make the pain go away?

As long as there is no serious infection, there are a number of steps you can take. If there is a serious infection, you should see your doctor. You may need oral antibiotics.

The first step for home treatment is to reduce the pressure. If you have been wearing shoes or socks that are too tight in the toes, consider wearing open toed shoes, for a while, whenever that's possible. Of course, in many work environments, you must wear shoes. Try to choose ones that are roomy and that have rounded toes, rather than pointy ones.

Twice daily soakings in warm water and Epsom salts should help to reduce the swelling and relieve the pain. The use of a topical antiseptic or antibiotic ointment reduces the risk of swelling.

Be sure to dry your toes carefully and wrap the ingrown toe nail with a bandage or cover it with a plastic cap, specially designed for the purpose. Once you get rid of the problem, remember to take steps to prevent it from happening in the future.

Jerome Kaplan is an expert author on the subject of foot care. He recommends everyone take foot care seriously, because minor problems today can turn into surgery tomorrow.



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