The Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails. You've heard of them and know a few friends and family members who have had one. They are a fairly common foot issue that in most cases are easily treatable. As harmless as they appear, they can become serious health concerns for certain people with other health issues such as diabetes. They can also get infected if they aren't treated, causing potentially excruciating pain and possibly irreparable damage to the toe. In some cases, the nail itself will need to be removed.

What Is an Ingrown Nail?

Normally, the toenail will grow over the flesh of the toe. This is because the nails act as a source of protection for the tip of the toe as well as for the old use of gripping the ground when barefoot. An ingrown nail, however, occurs when a nail grows into the flesh instead of on top of the flesh. These nail abnormalities typically occur on the big toes.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

There are multiple causes of ingrown toenails, most of which can be easily avoided. Below are their common causes:

Poor foot care. Cutting one's nail too short and cutting rounded edges can cause the nails to grow into the side of the toe. To prevent an ingrown nail, avoid cutting the nail too short and cut the nails straight across.