How Does an Ingrown Nail Develop?
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Shape of the Nail and Toe
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An ingrown nail can be caused by many factors, one of those being the actual shape of the toenail. A nail that is generally curved in shape at the end is at greater risk for becoming ingrown rather than one that is not. If the toenail is horizontal at the edges rather than vertical this will greatly reduce the risk that an ingrown nail will develop. The shape of the nail is generally one that is inherited from great-grandparents, but it can also be influenced by other factors. Some of the most severely curved nails, known as "pincer nails" are at the highest risk for developing an ingrown nail because both sides of the nail are curved down towards the toe. Among taking into account the shape of the nail, you must also notice if you have a large, fleshy toe, as it will increase your chances of having an ingrown nail develop. This is why generally the big toe is at a higher risk for developing an ingrown nail.
Clipping the Nail
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One of the most well known ways of developing an ingrown toe nail is the misuse of clippers or cutting the nail itself too far down. Taking into account the shape of the nail, will give you more insight to the increased chances of developing an ingrown nail after clipping it. Clipping the sides of the toenail down too far can cause jagged or sharp corners. When these sharp corners begin to grow towards the toe, in the case of a curved nail, it applies extra pressure on a smaller point. The smaller point that has this pressure applied to it serves as sort of a knife, which cuts or punctures the skin of the toe and grows into the surrounding skin. This process can be very painful and will likely cause infection if it is not kept clean.
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Footwear and Injuries
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Chubby or fleshy toes are at an elevated risk for the development of an ingrown nail and the type of footwear a person wears can also have a big part in this process. Footwear that is too tight can cause the feet to swell, which in turn, increases the size and 'mushiness' of your toes. Wearing socks or shoes that are too tight or undersized can add pressure to the toe and toenail forcing the nail into the toe. This is especially true for those who do not wear shoes that are wide enough for the feet, because the force serves to curve the toenail if worn for extended periods of time. Beyond footwear, prior injuries and trauma to the foot can also serve to cause or increase the chances of developing an ingrown nail. Taking care of toe injuries and avoiding clipping your toenails if you will be wearing uncomfortable shoes will help to lower this risk.
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Resources
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