Ingrown toenails are one of the most common and uncomfortable nail problems and can affect all age groups. Ingrown toenails occur when the nail edge grows into the sensitive skin at the side of the nail.

The nail triggers redness, swelling, bleeding, and often significant discomfort and pain.

If left untreated an ingrown toenail may also cause an infection. It is important to treat ingrown nail issues promptly because any delay can lead to more serious problems.

Ingrown toenails mostly affect the big toe.

And when we stand, walk, or run we place significant amounts of pressure on the big toe and that adds to the discomfort. The pain can become so severe that it prevents walking or other forms of exercise.

A number of factors may trigger ingrown toenails including:

• Poor nail cutting, trimming or hygiene
• Pressure from ill-fitting footwear
• Injury or sports such as rugby, football, or running

Our expert podiatrists will remove just enough of the nail to relieve the problem and can also treat any additional issues such as infection.

Sometimes, a minor surgery under a local anaesthetic to remove the nail may be necessary but the podiatrist will very quickly be able to determine if this is appropriate.

They also know how to shape the nail to prevent the nail growing into the toe. The application of specially formulated medical compounds is another important part of making sure the nail grows correctly and safely.

It is especially important to seek help from an expert podiatrist for your ingrown toenail if you suffer from diabetes, nerve damage or other serious circulation problems. Poor management of ingrown toenails under these conditions can lead to very serious complications.

Fungal infections are common in toenails and will affect around 10% of Australians at some point in their lives. Fungal infections (or Onychomycosis) are highly contagious and thrive in warm moist conditions.

This is why many people pick up nail infections when using public swimming pools, gyms, showers or sharing towels. Nail salons that do not follow accepted hygiene practices between customers are another common source of nail infections.

Fungal infections can be ugly and difficult to treat.

Symptoms of a fungal nail infection include:

• Discolouration of the nail
• Swelling or abnormal shape
• Complete loss of the nail
• Ingrown toenails

Infections usually begin at the end of the nail and work their way under the nail.

Discolouration is usually one of the most obvious symptoms and a fungal infection may turn the nail yellow, black, brown or green or produce white spots. An unpleasant smell may also be present with a fungal infection.

If the infection is not treated, it may cause the nail to swell or grow abnormally. And the entire nail may eventually fall off.

Fungal infections can spread quickly so it is important to visit your podiatrist as soon as possible. Treatment may involve removing the infected areas of the nail and treating the nail with a topical anti-fungal medication.

Various issues can make routine nail management difficult or impossible for many people.

These issues may include:

• Diabetes
• Inadequate circulation
• Thickened nails
• Poor mobility/back/hip problems
• Injury

Nails can grow thicker as part of the aging process and when combined with poor mobility this can make routine nail care very challenging for the elderly.

Diabetes, poor circulation or injury also pose specific challenges for routine nail care.  Poorly fitting footwear can also turn routine nail care into an ongoing battle.

Our expert podiatry care can help keep your toenails looking and feeling perfect.

Our extensive range of nail care services covers everything from nail trimming, shaping, and surgery to, treating fungal problems, and providing orthotics or advising on more comfortable footwear.

We have depth/width footwear at Croydon Total Footcare and staff are trained to measure and fit appropriately to ease your pain and discomfort.