Ingrown toenails are one of the most common conditions treated by podiatrists in children. Ingrown toenail is in fact the most common nail disorder in children but most kids hide their ingrown toenails from their parents.
In this condition, the toenail starts to grow into the skin around the nail instead of outward. Since the growth of the nail cuts the skin, the ingrown toenail area can become inflamed or infected. The condition can cause significant pain.
What are the most common causes of ingrown toenail in children?
Some of the possible causes include
1. Tight footwear. Wearing tight shoes compresses the big toe towards the second toe. This can push the nail and cause pressure between the nail and the lateral nail fold and can lead to ingrowth of that nail.
2. Incorrect nail trimming. The toenails should not be cut in a rounded manner, but rather straight across. Nails should not be trimmed too short so as not to expose the tissue underneath.
3. Tight socks. Like tight footwear, this can cause compression of the toes and cause pressure in the nail folds.
4. Sports where kicking is involved.
5. Genetics.
Ingrown nails in children can be prevented. Make sure your child does not wear shoes that are too tight, wear proper shoes if they play sports, trim nails straight across, and keep an eye out for any toe swelling.
When to see a podiatrist.
See your foot doctor if the toe looks swollen and inflamed. If you note pockets of pus near the nail or toe, when your child has developed fever, when the pain becomes unbearable, or if there is repeated ingrowth of the toenail.
The only proper way to treat your child’s ingrown toenail is with a minor surgical procedure at the podiatrist’s office. Parents should never try to do “bathroom surgeries” or attempt to dig the nail out by themselves. This can lead to more problems or even an infection.
For more information on pediatric foot problems such as ingrown toenails, contact FFLC office at (239) 430-3668. Family Foot and Leg Center has several locations in Lee and Collier counties to take care of any foot/leg problems.
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FFLC Downtown Naples 730 Goodlette Road, suite 102
FFLC Ft. Myers @ Int’l Center 6846 International Center BLVD. Suite B
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