Why Children Get Ingrown Toenails: Risks and Prevention Tips
If you have a child who has suddenly started limping or refusing to put on their sneakers, you might be dealing with a common but painful childhood milestone: the ingrown toenail. While we often think of this as an adult problem caused by years of tight dress shoes, kids and teenagers we see at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group are actually at a higher risk for this uncomfortable condition.
Here is what you need to know about why ingrown toenails happen in kids, and what to do about them.
Growth Spurts and Tight Shoes
When a shoe becomes too tight, it pushes the skin of the toe against the edge of the nail. And since a child’s nail is often softer and more pliable than an adult’s, it can easily be forced to grow into the surrounding skin.
You should check the fit of your child’s shoes this spring. If you notice that their toes are reaching the very end of the shoe, or if they are complaining that their feet feel squeezed, it is time for a new pair. Ensuring there is about a thumb’s width of space at the front of the shoe can prevent the constant pinching that leads to an ingrown.
Improper Trimming Techniques
It is tempting to round off the corners of your child’s toenails to make them look neat, but this is a risk factor.When you cut a nail too short or curve the edges deeply into the corners, you are essentially inviting the nail to grow into the skin.
That’s why you should always trim your child’s nails straight across. This keeps the corners of the nail visible and prevents them from digging into the delicate skin of the nail fold.
Sports and Repetitive Trauma
Kids are constantly on the move, whether they are playing soccer, dancing, or just running around the playground. Repetitive trauma, like the constant stubbing of the toe against the front of a soccer cleat, can cause the nail to shift and become ingrown.
Plus, many kids develop a habit of picking at or tearing their nails when they feel a jagged edge. This often leaves a small spike of nail behind that is hidden under the skin. And as the nail grows, that spike acts like a tiny splinter, which leads to redness, swelling, and eventually an infection.
When to Call a Podiatrist
As we said, an ingrown toenail in a child can quickly lead to an infection if it is not handled correctly. If you notice pus, extreme redness, or if the toe is hot to the touch, it is time for a professional evaluation.
If you’re worried about your foot pain, come see the expert team at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
