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Ingrown Nails

Definition: The embedding of the upper corners of the nail into the skin. This issue causes pain upon pressure, inflammatory redness, and swelling in the flesh surrounding the nail. It can also occasionally lead to an infection of the tissues: these become swollen and filled with pus. This phenomenon primarily affects the big toe.

Internal and external causes: Incorrect nail cutting (too short or rounded), repeated toe trauma (shock, etc...), wearing shoes that are too tight or ill-fitting, excessive sweating, certain conditions (diabetes, arthritis, etc...), nail abnormalities, improper foot positioning while walking, presence of an infection (fungus, etc...).

How to reduce or eliminate: Perform disinfectant foot baths to reduce inflamed tissue swelling; leave the feet exposed to open air for as long as possible; insert a compress between the ingrown toenail and the skin; consult a doctor.

Preventative steps to take: Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow; do not cut your nails too short or round them off, but rather trim them square; maintain good foot and nail hygiene daily; limit micro-traumas.