If you, your kids, or other family members have had an ingrown toenail, you may wonder if you can inherit the tendency to develop this condition. The answer is yes, but family history is just one risk factor for developing this common foot problem.
Ingrown toenails occur more often in people who've had nail trauma or toenail fungus, wear shoes that are too short, have nails that grow too fast or too slowly, or trim their nails improperly.
While you can't change your biology, you can take steps to avoid toenail fungus, wear shoes that fit and have a roomier toe box, and learn how to properly cut your toenails.
We often see a lot of kids with ingrown toenails in September--particularly kids who play soccer and other sports. To help prevent your child from getting an ingrown toenail, in addition to a proper nail trim, take them to a shoe store you trust to get their feet measured before they start school. If they play soccer and wear cleats, make sure they aren't too tight.
If you or your child are experiencing redness and swelling near the border of your great toenail, call us today at 206-368-7000 for an appointment. Often same day for emergencies and less than 2 weeks for chronic foot pain. You can also request an appointment online.
For more information about foot and ankle problems, download our eBook, "No More Foot Pain".
In addition, our newsletter "Foot Sense" comes out monthly. You can also check out our past issues. Every issue contains a mouth-watering recipe and can be printed out for easier reading!
Seattle foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Rion Berg offers foot care for patients with bunions, heel pain, diabetes, fungal toenails, ingrown nails, and surgical solutions when needed to residents of Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood and other surrounding suburbs.
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