Ingrown toenails are a common yet painful condition that can affect anyone, leading to discomfort, swelling, and even infection. When the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, it can cause irritation, pain, and in some cases, more serious issues. While ingrown toenails can often be managed with proper care, prevention is always the best course of action.
At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we understand how ingrown toenails can disrupt daily life, which is why we’re providing you with practical ways to prevent and treat them. Whether you’re dealing with this issue or simply want to avoid it in the future, these tips will help you keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
1. Choose the Right Footwear
One of the most significant contributing factors to ingrown toenails is improper footwear. Tight, narrow shoes can squeeze your toes together, putting pressure on the nails and causing them to grow into the skin. High heels, which force the toes into a pointed position, can also exacerbate the problem.
Prevention Tip:
When choosing shoes, make sure they fit properly and provide enough room for your toes to move freely. Avoid shoes that pinch or squeeze your feet, and opt for those with a rounded toe box. If you’re active or on your feet all day, choose shoes with proper arch support and cushioning to reduce foot stress.
Signs you may need new shoes:
•Tightness or discomfort when wearing your shoes
•Soreness or pain after walking for extended periods
•Redness or swelling around your toes or nails
2. Trim Your Toenails Properly
Incorrect toenail trimming is a common cause of ingrown toenails. Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can cause the skin to fold over the nail, encouraging it to grow into the surrounding tissue. On the other hand, leaving nails too long can also cause them to press into the skin, leading to discomfort.
Prevention Tip:
Trim your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Use proper toenail clippers, and be gentle when cutting to prevent injury. If you have difficulty cutting your toenails, consider visiting a podiatrist who can safely trim them for you.
How to trim your toenails properly:
•Cut your nails straight across, following the natural curve of the toe.
•Avoid cutting the corners too deeply, as this can encourage the nail to grow inward.
•If you have thick or hard nails, soak them in warm water to soften them before trimming.
3. Soak Your Feet to Relieve Pain
If you’re already experiencing the pain and discomfort of an ingrown toenail, soaking your feet can provide relief. A warm soak can help reduce swelling, soften the skin, and alleviate the pressure caused by the nail digging into the skin. Additionally, soaking can promote healing and prevent infection.
Treatment Tip:
Soak your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes, adding a small amount of Epsom salt or antibacterial soap to the water. After soaking, gently dry your feet and apply an antiseptic to the affected area to prevent infection.
Additional soak options:
•Apple cider vinegar can be added to the water for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
•Adding a few drops of tea tree oil can help soothe the area due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Wear Protective Padding
If you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail, protecting the area can help prevent further irritation and reduce pain. Special toe pads or bandages are available that can shield the toenail from rubbing against your shoes, providing comfort and allowing the nail to heal properly.
Treatment Tip:
Consider using a non-stick bandage or toe protector over the affected area to cushion the toe and prevent it from being irritated by your shoes. If the pain is severe, you can also use a cotton ball or piece of gauze between the toe and the nail to lift the nail slightly and reduce pressure.
When to seek professional care:
If the pain continues despite using protective padding, or if you notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus), it may be time to consult with a podiatrist for further treatment options.
5. Avoid Self-Surgery
It can be tempting to attempt at-home remedies to fix an ingrown toenail, but it’s important to avoid trying to cut or dig the nail out yourself. This can lead to further injury, bleeding, and infection. Improper handling can also make the condition worse.
Treatment Tip:
If your ingrown toenail is causing severe pain, swelling, or infection, visit a podiatrist who can properly assess the situation. In some cases, they may need to lift the nail, remove part of the nail, or prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present.
Signs that you should see a doctor:
•Persistent or worsening pain
•Visible infection (redness, warmth, pus)
•Difficulty walking due to pain
•The toenail is embedded deep in the skin
6. Consider Professional Treatment for Severe Cases
In some cases, ingrown toenails may become recurrent or develop into a more serious issue. If you frequently experience ingrown toenails, or if they are not responding to home care treatments, it may be time to consult a foot care specialist. Podiatrists are equipped to handle more advanced cases and can recommend treatment options to alleviate the issue long-term.
Treatment Options include:
•Partial Nail Removal: If the ingrown toenail is persistent or infected, your podiatrist may remove part of the nail to relieve pressure and prevent recurrence.
•Chemical or Laser Treatment: For those with recurrent ingrown toenails, chemical agents or laser therapy can be used to destroy the nail matrix (the part of the nail responsible for growth), preventing the nail from growing back into the skin.
•Surgical Removal: In rare cases, the entire nail may need to be removed, and the area will be allowed to heal without regrowth of the nail.
Aftercare for ingrown toenail procedures:
After treatment, it’s important to follow your podiatrist’s aftercare instructions to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. This may include keeping the foot clean, applying prescribed ointments, and wearing protective footwear.
Conclusion
Ingrown toenails can be painful and disruptive, but with the right care and attention, they can be prevented and treated effectively. By choosing proper footwear, trimming your nails correctly, and seeking professional help when necessary, you can minimize the risk of developing ingrown toenails and keep your feet healthy.
If you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail or experiencing pain and discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to Bellagio Foot & Ankle. Our team of experienced podiatrists is here to provide personalized care and treatment options to help you regain comfort and mobility. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healthy, pain-free feet.
