Ingrown toenail can evoke discomfort just by hearing the name. Ongoing discomfort, swelling, and difficulty putting on shoes can be quite upsetting. Don’t worry, though, because this blog provides helpful tips on preventing and managing stubborn ingrown toenail.
Why Do Ingrown Toenails Happen Anyway?
Before we dive into solutions, it’s crucial to identify the problem. Ingrown toenails occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. Several factors can contribute to this issue:
- Improper nail trimming: Cutting your nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage them to grow inwards.
- Tight-fitting shoes: Shoes that cramp your toes put pressure on the nail bed, increasing the risk of ingrowns.
- Trauma to the toe: Stubbing your toe or dropping something on it can damage the nail and trigger ingrowth.
- Certain foot conditions: Bunions, hammertoes, and naturally curved nails can also contribute.
Prevention is Key: Keeping Ingrown Toenails at Bay
You can usually prevent ingrown toenails by taking proper care of your toes. Here are some essential guidelines:
- Nail Trimming 101: Cut your nails straight across, following the natural curve of your toe. Avoid rounding the corners and leave a small white tip.
- Shoe Size Matters: Choose shoes that fit well and provide ample toe space. Ditch the pointy heels and opt for comfortable, wider shoes.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent infection. Wash them daily and change your socks regularly.
- Pay Attention to Your Feet: Regularly inspect your toes for any signs of ingrowth, especially if you’re prone to them.
Stubborn Ingrown? Don’t Panic, Here’s How to Treat It:
Even with all the necessary steps taken, ingrown toenails can still occur. But don’t lose hope. Here are a couple of methods to find some comfort:
- Soaking in Warm Water: Immerse your foot in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes a few times daily to help decrease swelling and redness.
- Using Cotton Floss: Carefully place a thin piece of dental floss under the part of the nail that’s growing into the skin to straighten its growth.
- Medications Available Without a Prescription: For pain relief, you can use drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Antibiotics (if needed): If you notice symptoms of infection, like redness, pus, or worsening pain, it’s important to consult a doctor for a prescription for antibiotics.
Uncover Effective Techniques, click here to Stop and Heal Difficult Ingrown Toenails Now!
A Team of Dedicated Professionals
The clinic takes pride in its team of top-tier foot and ankle specialists. Dr. David Waters founded the clinic, alongside other podiatrists like Dr. Evan Lenertz, Dr. Akhila Issac, Ashley Anderson, PA-C, and Alecia Clough, PA-C. Each member of the team is committed to offering personalised and cutting-edge solutions for various foot and ankle conditions.
Services Offered
Platte River Foot and Ankle Surgeons offer a wide range of services, including:
- Diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions: This includes common issues like bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, heel pain, ankle sprains, and arthritis.
- Minimally invasive surgery: The practice utilises advanced surgical techniques to minimise recovery time and scarring.
- Laser treatment: This can be used for various foot problems, including fungal infections and warts.
- Wound care: The team has expertise in treating chronic wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, and other wound care needs.
- Sports medicine: They can help athletes recover from foot and ankle injuries and prevent future problems.
FAQs:
This website has provided useful guidance on avoiding and dealing with ingrown toenails. Yet, it’s likely that you might still have some questions left. We’ll tackle some frequently asked questions to give you the information you need to successfully handle these recurring ingrown toenails.
Q: Can I cut out the ingrown part of my toenail myself?
A: We generally don’t recommend attempting to cut out the ingrown part yourself. This can increase the risk of infection and further damage the nail bed. It’s best to see a podiatrist for safe and proper removal.
Q: What are some signs of an infected ingrown toenail?
A: Look out for these warning signs:
- Increased redness and swelling around the toe.
- Throbbing pain that worsens with pressure.
- Pus draining from the affected area.
- Fever or chills (more concerning, seek immediate medical attention).
Q: I keep getting ingrown toenails. Is there anything I can do permanently?
A: If you frequently suffer from ingrown toenail, a podiatrist can recommend permanent treatments. These options might involve:
- Partial nail avulsion: Removing a small section of the nail to prevent future ingrowth.
- Phenol cauterization: Applying a chemical to destroy part of the nail root, stopping it from regrowing.
- Wedge resection: Taking out a wedge-shaped piece of the nail and underlying tissue to stop regrowth in that specific area.
Q: I have diabetes. How does that affect ingrown toenails?
A: Diabetes can cause reduced blood flow and heighten the risk of foot infections. It’s important to carefully monitor your feet, look for any signs of ingrown nails every day, and promptly get help from a doctor if you think there’s an infection.
Q: Can home remedies actually help with ingrown toenails?
A: While not a full fix, simple home treatments like warm baths and gentle flossing can help with minor cases of ingrown nails. But, if the discomfort gets worse or signs of infection show up, it’s important to go to a doctor.
Keep in mind, if the home treatments don’t work or your ingrown nail looks serious, don’t wait to see a foot specialist. Taking quick action can avoid problems and get you back to walking without pain soon.
Uncover Effective Techniques, click here to Stop and Heal Difficult Ingrown Toenails Now!
Having ingrown toenails can be bothersome, but by sticking to these tips, you can effectively prevent and handle them. Make sure to take good care of your nails, choose shoes that are comfortable, and keep up with cleanliness. Easy treatments at home, such as soaking, can help ease the pain for less severe situations. If your ingrown toenails don’t go away or show signs of infection, consult a foot specialist. By using the right techniques, you can keep your toes healthy and comfortable, allowing you to walk with ease and confidence.
