The Best Ways to Treat Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a common yet painful condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This issue most often affects the big toe and can cause discomfort, redness, swelling, and even infection. Fortunately, there are effective ways to treat ingrown toenails and alleviate the associated pain. Here, we explore the best methods to address this condition and maintain healthy feet.

1. Home Remedies for Early-Stage Ingrown Toenails

If your ingrown toenail is in its early stages and not severely infected, you may be able to manage it at home with the following remedies:

• Warm Salt Soaks: Soaking your foot in warm water mixed with Epsom salts for 15-20 minutes, two to three times a day, can reduce swelling and soften the skin, making it easier to lift the nail.
• Keep It Clean: Wash your feet daily with soap and water to prevent infection. After washing, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Wear Comfortable Footwear: Choose shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the affected toe. Avoid tight or high-heeled shoes during the healing process.
• Use a Cotton Ball or Dental Floss: Gently place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the ingrown edge of the nail after soaking. This can help guide the nail to grow above the skin.

2. Over-the-Counter Treatments

For mild cases, over-the-counter products can provide relief. Antiseptic creams or ointments can help prevent infection, while numbing sprays or pain relievers like ibuprofen can reduce discomfort. Some kits specifically designed for ingrown toenails include tools to help lift the nail safely.

3. When to See a Podiatrist

If your ingrown toenail is persistent, worsening, or showing signs of infection such as pus, increased redness, or excessive pain, it is essential to seek professional help. A podiatrist can provide targeted ingrown toenails treatment, such as:

• Nail Splinting: A small device is placed under the nail to lift it away from the skin.
• Partial Nail Removal: In more severe cases, the podiatrist may remove part of the nail to relieve pressure and guide proper regrowth.
• Antibiotics: If an infection is present, a course of oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed.

4. Surgical Intervention

For chronic or recurrent ingrown toenails, minor surgical procedures may be necessary. Common options include:

• Matrixectomy: This procedure involves removing part or all of the nail matrix (the tissue responsible for nail growth) to prevent the nail from growing back improperly.
• Laser Treatment: Laser surgery can precisely target and remove the problematic nail segment, offering a minimally invasive solution with quicker recovery times.

5. Preventing Ingrown Toenails

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails:

• Trim Your Nails Properly: Cut your nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges. Ensure the nails are not too short or too long.
• Wear the Right Shoes: Choose footwear that provides adequate room for your toes to move comfortably.
• Protect Your Feet: Avoid injuring your toes by wearing protective shoes during activities that could cause trauma, such as heavy lifting.
• Maintain Foot Hygiene: Regularly clean and inspect your feet, paying attention to any changes in your nails or skin.

Final Thoughts

Ingrown toenails can be painful and inconvenient, but with the right care, they are highly treatable. Early intervention with home remedies can often resolve mild cases, while professional treatments ensure more severe or persistent cases are addressed effectively. By adopting good foot care habits, you can minimise the risk of future ingrown toenails and enjoy healthier, pain-free feet. For expert ingrown toenail treatment, consult the podiatrists at www.cbrpodiatry.com.