An ingrowing toenail, also known as Onychocryptosis, is a chronic nail condition caused by pressure of the nail fold by the underlying nail plate. This is a very common problem plaguing runners due to the constant pressure the toenails face while running in sneakers. Ingrown toenails can theoretically occur in any one of your toenails, but are most common in your big toes. This can be a very painful condition as the edge of the sharp, curved toenail acts like a ‘razor blade’ digging into your nail border. Tight shoes, incorrect trimming of toenails, and faulty biomechanics have all been attributed to ingrown toenails.
In severe cases, if you allow this condition progress any further, you are at risk for developing what is known as a paronychia. This is caused by chronic pressure of the nail border against the surrounding skin which results in inflammation and infection. You will notice that your toe is red, hot, swollen, and painful, sometimes with drainage. If you are experiencing this complaint, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a podiatrist in order to remove the edge of the offending nail in order to treat this immediately.
Conservative Treatments for Ingrown Toenails:
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Proper toenail trimming – it is essential if you have an ingrown toenail to cut the nail straight across and not in a curved fashion or else you will only exacerbate your symptoms and potentially make the situation worse.
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Proper shoe gear – if you notice you are constantly getting ingrown toenails (especially on both feet), it might be time for a new pair of running sneakers. Make sure you purchase a pair with a wider toe-box in order to provide enough room for your toes while running.
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Biomechanical/Gait analysis – it could be possible that you have an underlying abnormality with the way you run. Seek the attention of a podiatrist in order to analyze if too much pressure is being placed onto your toes while running. Insoles, orthotics, or toe pads can be utilized to conservatively treat this.
Surgical Treatments for Ingrown Toenails:
Nail avulsion – when you cannot treat the condition yourself, it is time to see the podiatrist. The offending nail border is removed, which decreases pressure on the skin surrounding the nail and alleviates symptoms. This procedure is easily performed in the office under local anesthetic. In some cases, removal of the entire nail may be performed.
Nail avulsions have been shown to be the most effective treatment for ingrown toenails and patients receive immediate relief afterwards. Return to normal exercise and running can typically resume within a day or two, thus solving a painful problem and getting the patient back in the race quickly.