The more pronounced symptoms of an ingrown toenail often include severe pain, redness, swelling, and oozing at the edge of the toenail due to a bacterial or fungal infection. In fact, ingrown toenails often precede a case of fungal toenails so all the more reason to try and prevent ingrown toenails from occurring.
Treatments for ingrown toenails may include the following:
- Soaking and resting the foot—An ingrown toenail will often improve with warm water foot soaks to help soften the toenail for easier trimming and lifting.
- Toenail edge lifting—By carefully lifting the edge of the toenail and inserting a small piece of cotton under it you can redirect the nail above your tender skin.
- Minor surgery—In cases of severe ingrown toenails, surgical treatment by your podiatrist may be needed. This is often done with a local anesthetic in the office and has a minimal recovery period.
You can help prevent ingrown toenails with these 2 tips:
- Be sure to cut your toenails straight across or just on a slight curve. Cut them a little longer than the tip of the toe. Then the sharp edge of the nail won’t be able to easily push into the tender skin on the edge of your toe.
- Wear properly fitted shoes with extra room in the toe box to allow your toes to move without rubbing or pressing on the inside of your shoes.
If you are experiencing painful ingrown toenails, see your foot doctor for the proper care. Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX (county of Dallas), is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries, and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.