Can You Get A Bone Infection From An Ingrown Toenail?

I would like to first announce that our Learning page on my practice's website has changed format a little- it is now reorganized into categories to make finding and researching foot conditions easier.  On that page I have written dozens of articles on foot conditions that differ in content and format from my blog entries.  Check it out if you have a question on foot problems that are not covered in this blog, or just want general foot pain information on a specific topic.
Here is the link:
http://www.inpodiatrygroup.com/services.html

Next, on to today’s post.  I want to discuss a potential complication of a relatively simple nail and skin issue that many people do not associate together.  Infections in ingrown nails can and do lead to bone infections in severe cases.  Here’s why.....

Nail tissue comes from a group of cells called the nail matrix.  Located under the skin at the base of the nail, the nail matrix grows nail outward.  It is closely associated with the end bone of the toe, which lies a very short distance underneath.  When an ingrown nail is present, and inflammation develops in the skin fold adjacent to that ingrown portion, bacteria can become trapped within and under the swollen skin.  In this tight space an infection can develop, and that is why some ingrown nails become red and drain pus.  Typically, this infection, even in diabetics, is limited and resolves with simple self-treatment measures like soaking, antibiotic ointment, or a basic oral antibiotic.  However, if this infection is allowed to smolder untreated for a long time (usually months), or if the area suffers repeated infections, the bacteria can eventually make their way down the channel alongside the nail and into the nail matrix.  From there, it is possible for the bone underneath to become infected.  For many diabetics, this can mean amputation of the end of the toe as bone infection, especially of the small bones of the foot, has a poor outcome with the extended use of intravenous antibiotics as opposed to larger bones elsewhere in the body with a better blood supply.

The way to prevent this complication, especially for diabetics, is to simply get ingrown toenails treated early.  The procedure to remove the ingrown border permanently is relatively simple, done in five minutes, and has a very infrequent infection rate of its own following the procedure, even in diabetics.  Although uncommon, bone infections following ingrown toenail infections are a very real potential complication, and addressing the underlying cause early can make a positive difference in the eventual outcome.

Until next time,
Scott R. Kilberg DPM

www.inpodiatrygroup.com - foot surgeon, podiatrist in Indianapolis
myachingfoot.blogspot.com -  foot pain explained
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A foot doctor in Indianapolis Noblesville Fishers Carmel Westfield and Fortville Indiana.