Preventing Ingrown Toenails
At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know that one of the most painful minor podiatric problems that patients bring to our Pasco and Hernando county offices is the ingrown toenail. As the nail grows into the skin surrounding the nail bed, the toenail becomes inflamed, extremely tender to the touch and very sore. Left untreated, the nail will penetrate the skin, and this opens the door to bacterial infection.
Reducing the Risk
For some patients, the tendency for ingrown toenails is hereditary. For most people, however, several factors can be addressed to lower the chances of ingrown toenails forming.
Proper Nail Care—most frequently, the cause of ingrown toenails is improper nail trimming. Nails should be cut relatively short, but above the skin of the nail bed. Nails should not be trimmed in a rounded style. They should be cut straight across and filed flat, with no downward curving edges.
Wise Footwear Choices—your socks and shoes can play a key role in reducing the likelihood of an ingrown nail developing. Look for shoes with roomy toe boxes and avoid high heels which force the toes to squish together. Don’t wear socks or hose that are too tight in the toe area. When toes spend prolonged amounts of time squeezed in tight quarters, ingrown nails have a greater chance of occurring.
Good Hygiene—ingrown toenails can be the result of a fungal infection. Keeping your feet clean and dry and not walking barefoot in public places like gyms, pools and nail salons will help protect your feet from fungal infections.
Alleviating the Pain
If, despite your best efforts, you do notice an ingrown toenail starting, soak the toe in warm water multiple times a day. After soaking, try to gently massage the toe out of the skin. If this doesn’t work, contact our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) or Hudson (727-868-2128) office for an appointment. Our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, will numb your toe and gently remove the ingrown nail. The procedure is sure to leave you in less pain than when you came in.