How To Deal With Ingrown Toenails

How To Deal With Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown ToenailIngrown toenails are not only painful; they also put your feet at risk for infection. Thankfully, the prevention and treatment of ingrown toenails are fairly easy, provided that you catch them in time. Here are five ways to prevent and treat ingrown toenails that Dr. Alan Discont, a podiatrist in Chandler, AZ, wants you to know.

1. Choose Comfortable Shoes

While ingrown toenails can be hereditary or the result of an injury, they are also very commonly caused by wearing shoes that are too tight. If you find yourself getting frequent ingrown toenails, switch out your tight and uncomfortable shoes for new shoes that are a little roomier. Sandals are a great option in the summer. Running shoes and clog type shoes can be used all year round.

2. Trim Your Nails Properly

Another big factor in whether or not you get ingrown toenails or not is how you cut your toenails. Cut them with sharp edges, and the edges are more likely to grow right into your skin. Cut them straight across instead, and make sure you round the edges.

3. Separate the Nail from Your Skin

If your nail begins to grow into your skin, gently separate it with a pair of tweezer or dental floss, being careful not to damage either the nail or the skin. Place a small piece of cotton in between your skin and your nail. This can help prevent the nail from growing into your skin while you wait for the nail to grow out long enough. 

4. Use an Antibiotic to Clear Up Any Infection

If your ingrown toenail has already started to develop an infection, call Dr. Discont in Chandler, AZ right away. Dr. Discont can examine your potential problem and recommend or prescribe an antibiotic to help clear up the infection and prevent further problems.

5. Visit Dr. Discont in Chandler, AZ for Treatment

If, despite of your best efforts, your ingrown toenail keeps returning, you will want to call Dr. Discont to further discuss your options. He can remove part of your nail, keeping it from growing back into your skin.

Ingrown toenails may be painful and inconvenient, but you don't have to let them ruin your day. Use these five steps to prevent and treat ingrown toenails and hopefully you won't have to continue dealing with them again and again.

Are you a patient of Family Foot & Ankle Care? If so, we would love to hear about your experiences below!