Ingrown toenails are commonly treated by foot specialists. Though usually not severe, they can cause pain, tenderness, swelling, and redness, and frequently produce pus when they become infected. Take a moment to learn about this common foot problem and what you can do about it to maintain healthy, aesthetically pleasing feet.

What You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails

Causes

Ingrown toenails happen when the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. They usually occur from cutting toenails too short and on their sides instead of straight across. This causes the nail to curve and grow in the wrong direction. Toenail injuries can also cause this condition, as can wearing the wrong shoes that put excessive pressure on big toes. Some people have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails because their nails curve naturally. Foot specialists note failing to keep the feet dry and clean can also contribute to ingrown toenails because it increases the chance of infection.

Treatment

In addition to maintaining proper foot hygiene, treat ingrown toenails by soaking them in warm water mixed with 1 to 2 tablespoons of unscented Epsom salts to relieve pressure and pain. The foot soak helps eliminate pus as well. Treatment also includes wearing comfortable shoes and allowing the nail to grow out. Continually cutting the nail may temporarily relieve the pain; however, the nail will grow back into the skin. Once the nail is sufficiently long, cut it straight across.

If the pain becomes severe, there is serious redness, swelling, and pus, you think the infection is fungal, or you have other health conditions that can affect foot circulation such as diabetes, see your local foot specialist immediately.

Prevention

Prevent ingrown toenails by always cutting your nails straight across. Do not cut them too short or wear shoes that constantly put pressure on your big toes. Keep your feet clean and consider devices such as toe protectors and braces. Toe protectors provide ingrown toenails with extra cushioning and some include nail-softening ointments for easier trimming. Toe braces, on the other hand, protect skin from sharp ingrown nails and lift the nails so they grow outward.

Work with the foot specialists at Podiatry Associates of Rochester to keep your feet healthy and infection-free. The podiatry office has two convenient locations in Monroe County, NY, and treats a wide range of foot conditions and injuries, including sports injuries. Call (585) 342-8700 (1255 Portland Ave location) or (585) 426-7320 (Buffalo Road Building #900 location) to make an appointment or visit the foot specialists online for more information. They accept most types of insurance and provide handicap-accessible facilities.