An ingrown toenail results when a corner of the nail grows downward into the skin. While the condition is sometimes unpleasant and painful, it’s typically responsive to treatment. You can also take simple preventative steps to ensure they don't recur. Below are a few tips for preventing this common foot problem.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

1. Wear Properly Fitted Shoes

The nails of the toes need room to grow naturally. Tight-fitting footwear with constrictive toe-boxes will contort the toes and may eventually force a nail to grow downward into the flesh. Choose shoes that have ample wiggle room. If you do wear shoes with a narrow or pointed toe, such as high heels or cowboy boots, keep them on only for brief periods or as occasional footwear choices.

2. Keep Toes Clean & Well-Ventilated

Fungal infections are another cause of ingrown nails; they tend to thicken the toenails and force them to grow in at detrimental angles. To avoid a fungal infection, wash and dry the feet thoroughly each day. When you're at home, keep your feet exposed so air can circulate around and between the toes.

3. Trim Toenails Straight Across

Being mindful of how you cut your nails will help prevent improper growth. Aim to keep the nails at a moderate length. Letting them grow too long may result in discomfort, but cutting them too short can cause the nails to grow in unevenly and sink into the surrounding skin. Trim straight across—not at an angle—to help the entire nail grow at the same length.

If the pain of an ingrown toenail interferes with your ability to move around comfortably and limits your daily activities, see a foot doctor. Advanced Foot Care Center of Rochester is here to help. For over three decades, they’ve been serving patients throughout the Monroe County, NY, area.  With locations in both Rochester and Fairport, they treat a variety of foot issues, including ingrown nails, hammertoes, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. Call (585) 249-0020 to make an appointment. Read testimonials from happy patients online.