What Should I Do If My Toenail Grows into the Flesh?

Toenails protect the toes, and any abnormality can cause discomfort and significantly impact daily work and life. If toenails grow inward, it may be due to ingrown toenails, which require prompt attention. Otherwise, it can lead to inflammation or swelling in the toe area. If you cannot handle it yourself, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. It is also important to properly care for the toes. In the medical field, the ingrown toenail is described as the toenail piercing into the soft tissue, causing pain and discomfort, even preventing one from wearing shoes. Severe cases can lead to toe swelling and infection, significantly affecting one's work and life.

1. Cutting Toenails Too Short: Some people, similar to having obsessive-compulsive disorder, tend to cut their toenails very short, shorter than the tips of their fingers. This removes the protective function of the nails for the fingers and toes. The short and uneven side nails can force the toenails to grow deeper, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails. It is recommended not to cut toenails too short, maintaining a similar length to the tips of the toes. After cutting, it is best to use a nail clipper to smooth the nails to prevent scratches from socks and maintain nail health.

2. Occupation-Related Factors: People who spend a lot of time standing, such as ballet dancers and football players, are more likely to suffer toenail injuries, leading to nail plate fractures. This can cause the lateral edges of the nail plate to move closer to the soft tissue of the nail groove, resulting in ingrown toenails. It is recommended that these individuals take appropriate breaks to rest their feet to reduce the risk of developing ingrown toenails.

3. Shoe Pressure: Shoes should be loose and comfortable. Comfort should be prioritized over aesthetics. If shoes constantly squeeze the feet, the risk of developing ingrown toenails increases. It is recommended to choose shoes that are comfortable and have a suitable fit, with a wide and non-restrictive front to avoid pressing on the toes.