Awareness of podological treatment methods and treatment preferences in individuals with ingrown toenails: A cross-sectional study from Turkiye.

Abstract

Objective: Ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) is a common foot disorder that negatively affects quality of life and may lead to chronic inflammation and recurrence. Public awareness regarding podological treatment methods remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate awareness of podological treatment approaches, treatment preferences, and factors associated with ingrown toenails among adults living in Turkiye.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 1,144 individuals aged 18-60 years between June and October 2023. Data were collected using a 15-item questionnaire administered online. Sociodemographic characteristics, occupational factors, footwear habits, diabetes status, genetic predisposition, podology awareness, treatment preferences, and recurrence rates were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using Pearson's Chi-square test.

Results: Chronic ingrown toenails were reported by 15.5% of participants, whereas 42.0% experienced occasional episodes. More than half of the participants (51.7%) had never heard of podology or orthonyxia applications, and only 16.2% had previously undergone treatment at a podology center. Chronic ingrown toenails were significantly associated with female sex, physically demanding occupations, inappropriate footwear use, diabetes, and family history (p<0.05). Self-management was the most common treatment preference (34.3%). Recurrence rates were significantly higher following surgical treatment compared with podological orthonyxia applications (67.6% vs. 28.7%, p<0.001).

Conclusion: Awareness of podological treatment methods in Turkiye remains insufficient. Conservative podological approaches were associated with lower recurrence rates than surgical treatment. Increasing public awareness and expanding access to podological care may contribute to improved management and prevention of ingrown toenails.