Solutions for Ingrown Toenails

According to the National Institute of Health, ingrown toenails affect nearly 20% of the population, most commonly happening on the big toe. What can you do about it?

Ingrown toenails happen when the toenail has started growing into the skin around your nailbed instead of over it. When this happens, it is painful and oftentimes the affected area of your toe will become red and swollen. In more severe cases, the area may become infected and begin to drain puss.

What causes ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails can happen for a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons is because the nail was cut too short or the edge of the nail was rounded, allowing it to grow into the skin instead of over it.

Other causes for ingrown toenails can be wearing shoes or socks that are too tight and cause the nail to be pressed into the skin for extended periods of time, or injuries, such as stubbing your toe.

Treatment and prevention

Because ingrown toenails are so common, it is likely that you will experience many in your life. Therefore, it is important that you properly take care of your feet and toenails.

The best way to prevent an ingrown toenail is to make sure you are trimming your nails straight across and not trimming them too short. You can also prevent ingrown toenails by wearing shoes that are the correct size and shape to allow your foot enough room when you are wearing them.
If you do end up with an ingrown toenail, it is easiest to treat in its early stages. During the early stages, you can soak your foot in warm, soapy water for 10-20 minutes a few times a day to soften the nail and clean the infected area.

As an ingrown toenail worsens, it will become more painful and infected. When this happens, it is important that you consult with a podiatrist to avoid further injuring your toe or spreading the infection.

Treatment

Treatment for stress fractures varies based on location and severity. Some easier, at-home remedies your doctor may recommend are:

• Rest: stopping the activities causing you pain

• Relieve Pressure from Foot: using a hard-sole shoe, a boot, or crutches to take weight off of the impacted area

If these easier treatment options are not enough, your foot and ankle surgeon may recommend surgery. Surgery includes inserting pins, screws, plates or rods into your foot to support the cracked bone.

Medical Pedicures

While anyone can benefit, most of the time medical pedicures are suggested for those who spend a lot of time on their feet or have a difficult time caring for their feet at home. Those who suffer from an underlying condition such as diabetes, cancer, or another autoimmune disease are great candidates.

Schedule your appointment

It is important that you always consult a foot and ankle specialist if your toe is swollen, red, leaking puss, or painful to the touch.
To schedule an appointment with our Foot & Ankle team in Norfolk, call (402) 844-8366.