Debunking Ingrown Toenail Myths

There’s a lot of information available regarding ingrown toenails, however, some of it is just not accurate.

Here are some common ingrown toenail myths, followed by information that debunks the myth:

Myth 1: The occurrence of ingrown toenails is limited to individuals with a typical nail shape, as widely believed.
Myth Buster 1: The common assumption that ingrown toenails exclusively affect individuals with broad or curling nails is false. Several other factors contribute to the onset of an ingrown toenail, such as improper nail-cutting technique, footwear that’s too tight, trauma to the toe, and, fungal infection.

Myth 2: The development of ingrown toenails is exclusively limited to the big toes.
Myth Buster 2: This is false because any toenail is susceptible to developing an ingrown nail. While the big toe is more often the toe with an ingrown nail when compared to other toes any toe can develop an ingrown nail.

Myth 3: It is commonly believed that ingrown toenails do not afflict young children.
Myth Buster 3: The phenomenon of ingrown toenails is observed across all age groups, ranging from very young children to older people. There is no specific age group that does or does not have, or develop, ingrown toenails.

Myth 4: Trimming the sides of the nails is sufficient to prevent ingrown nails.
Myth Buster 4: Trimming the edges of the nail can lead to the skin encroaching upon it, which results in the nail penetrating the skin as it grows. It’s important to use the proper nail clipper that does not leave a jagged edge. It is most often recommended to cut toenails in a straight line across, and, not too short.

Myth 5: Medication is sufficient to cure ingrown toenails.
Myth Buster 5: The use of any medication may delay the onset of infection. However, if the ingrown nail is not physically eliminated, the discomfort and inflammation will continue to exist. It’s always better to resolve the issue at its source to prevent further pain and eliminate the factors that could lead to an infection.

Myth 6: Treating ingrown toenails is usually an unpleasant experience.
Myth Buster 6: If the nail’s sharp edge is deeply embedded into the skin, causing excessive pain, a local anesthetic is applied to temporarily numb the toe, alleviating the discomfort during treatment. An experienced podiatrist will effectively remove an ingrown toenail with little discomfort. Our patients typically experience a significant reduction in their initial pain upon removing the ingrown nail.

When challenged with an ingrown nail that remains resistant to at-home treatments suggested through online resources, you don’t have to go it alone. Simply call Dr. Alexopoulos today for experienced, compassionate care.

If you have foot concerns, visit one of Chicago’s top podiatrists and examine your feet.

Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.