Ingrown toenails are among the most common foot ailments. Many people choose to treat the problem on their own, only to find out that the condition worsens. Dr. Gregory Cardinal at Podiatrist in Motion provides comprehensive podiatry services, including treatment for ingrown toenails in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg, Warrenton, VA and surrounding areas including Washington, DC and Maryland. Here are some of the most common causes of an ingrown toenail.

Curved Toenails

Some people have toenails that are naturally curved. The curvature causes the end of the toenail to grow into the skin along the edges. Over time, the toenail cuts into the skin, which allows bacteria to enter the wound and cause an infection.

Improper Fit of Your Shoes

Wearing shoes that fit your feet properly is important for many reasons. This includes the size of your shoes, as well as the shape. Ingrown toenails among residents of Alexandria, Arlington, & Fairfax, VA, residents are common when you wear shoes that are too tight. This includes shoes that are the wrong size, as well as shoes that have a small toe box, such as pointed shoes. The shoe puts pressure on the sides of your feet and the ends of your toes. Over time, the pressure deforms the toenail and causes it to grow into your skin.

Toenail Injuries

Injuries to your toenail may change the shape of the nail. An ingrown toenail typically develops when you suffer blunt force to the nail, such as dropping a heavy object on your toe. The nail may grow back with a curvature that allows it to become ingrown.

Trimming The Edges of Your Toenails

Toenails grow best when you cut them straight across. Many people prefer to cut the sides of their toenails at an angle. This encourages the toenail to grow with a curvature and become embedded in your skin. If you have an existing ingrown toenail. Be sure to cut the nail straight across. It takes some time, but the nail will eventually lose its curvature.

Sports and Athletic Activities

Sports and athletic activities that involve pressure on your toes may cause an ingrown toenail. This includes kickboxing, ballet, and soccer. While most of these injuries cannot be prevented, wearing proper shoes may reduce the risk of an ingrown toenail.

If you are looking for treatment for ingrown toenails, at Podiatrist in Motion, Dr. Cardinal can provide house calls in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, Leesburg, Warrenton, VA and surrounding areas including Washington, DC and Maryland. You can reach us at (703) 879-5155.