What are ingrown toenails?
An ingrown toenail is when the side of your nail grows into the skin next to it. As the toenail digs into the surrounding flesh, your toe may become red, swollen, and painful. In some cases, the toe can get infected.
People with medical conditions that affect blood flow to the feet, such as diabetes, are at greater risk for complications of ingrown toenails. The team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery provides comprehensive diabetic foot care, including ingrown toenail treatment.
How do I know if I have an ingrown toenail?
Ingrown toenails usually affect your big toe. In their early stages, ingrown toenails can be hard, swollen, and tender to the touch. Without treatment, the toe can turn red and may show signs of infection, such as increased pain and pus drainage.
What causes ingrown toenails?
Trimming your toenails too short or rounding the corners of the nail can increase the likelihood of an ingrown toenail. Wearing shoes that crowd your toenails, injuring your toenail, or having toenails that are naturally curved may also increase your risk for ingrown toenails.
How can I prevent ingrown toenails?
In addition to treating ingrown toenails, the team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery teaches you how to prevent them from happening. Steps you can take to avoid ingrown toenails include:
- Trimming your toenails in a straight line
- Keeping your toenail length even with the tips of your toes
- Wearing shoes that fit properly
- Wearing protective footwear to avoid toenail injuries
If you have diabetes, you should check your feet every day for signs of ingrown toenails and other foot problems, such as wounds and discoloration. Call New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery right away if you notice any changes. People with diabetes shouldn't attempt to treat ingrown toenails on their own.
How are ingrown toenails treated?
First, the team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery examines your foot to determine the severity of your ingrown toenail. Then, they recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.
Mild ingrown toenails may improve with home care measures, such as:
- Soaking the foot in warm water three to four times a day
- Keeping the foot dry for the rest of the day
- Wearing comfortable shoes that have enough room for your toes
- Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief
If the toe is infected, your podiatrist may prescribe antibiotics. They may also partially or completely remove the nail. If ingrown toenails continue to be a problem, they may recommend surgically removing the nail and a portion of the underlying nail bed.
For comprehensive care of ingrown toenails, call New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery or request an appointment online today.
