A Guide to Ingrown Toenails

How to Prevent and Treat Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and frustrating, but with the right knowledge, they are often preventable and treatable. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and sometimes infection. Understanding the causes and adopting preventive measures can help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are commonly caused by improper nail trimming, where the nails are cut too short or rounded at the edges. Tight-fitting shoes that squeeze the toes can also lead to ingrown nails by putting pressure on the nails, causing them to grow into the skin. Additionally, injuries, genetic predispositions, and poor foot hygiene can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the risk of ingrown toenails, follow these simple yet effective tips:

• Trim Nails Properly: Always cut your nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges. Do not cut them too short. Leave your nails slightly longer to prevent the nail from digging into the skin.
• Choose Comfortable Footwear: Wear shoes with enough space for your toes to move comfortably. Avoid tight, narrow shoes that can press on your nails.
• Maintain Good Hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent infections and promote overall nail health.

When to Seek Professional Treatment

While mild ingrown toenails can be managed at home with warm soaks, gentle nail lifting and routine chiropody visits, severe cases require professional intervention. If you experience pain, swelling, or signs of infection like redness, warmth, or discharge, consult your chiropodist promptly. In recurring or severe cases, your chiropodist may perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail and prevent future issues.

Even minor ingrown toenails can pose a serious risk for individuals with poor circulation or diabetes. To prevent more severe problems, it is important to visit your chiropodist as soon as these issues arise. For further information, you can read foot care tips specifically designed for those with diabetes from Diabetes Canada.

By adopting good nail care habits and seeking timely treatment when necessary, you can effectively prevent and manage ingrown toenails, keeping your feet healthy and pain-free.