When Toenails Get Ingrown

Usually, toenails grow straight out, but sometimes, one goes rogue and a corner begins to grow into the flesh around the toe. At NY Foot Health, we know that when this happens, it can create a painful foot problem that patients want relieved as soon as possible.

Treatment Options

At the first signs of an ingrown toenail—pain, redness, and swelling—you can try soaking the foot with the affected nail in warm, soapy water or a basin with warm water and Epsom salts. When the skin is sufficiently softened, gently try to massage the skin and work the nail out. Then apply an antiseptic and bandage the area. You should not do this however if:

• There is pus, drainage or a foul odor and/or you have a fever. These may be signs that an infection has set in and requires immediate medical attention.

• You have diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or another disorder that inhibits your circulation. In this case self-treatment should not be attempted—it’s best left to the podiatrist.

If you don’t currently have a podiatrist, you can find one through our online directory. The foot doctor has other treatment options available and can remove the ingrown nail or perform a procedure that will permanently prevent an ingrown nail if this is a recurring problem.

Prevention Tips

You can lower your risk for developing an ingrown toenail by taking a few precautions:

• Always trim your nails straight across and do not cut them so short that the skin folds over the edge of the nail. Never round the edges when filing.

• Don’t wear shoes that are narrow and pointy and squeeze the toes up against one another.

• Always use toenail clippers to cut nails. Never rip or tear the edges of your toenails.

If you want to learn more about conditions that affect your feet and ankles and what to do about them, contact us.