If you have spots of redness or tenderness around your toes, you might be experiencing onychocryptosis. More commonly known as ingrown toenails, this condition happens when the edge or side of a toenail grows into your skin. Without treatment from a foot specialist, the area can become infected and make walking painful. Here’s some advice for dealing with this issue.

Do:

Soak in warm water.

This step reduces swelling and pain. Many foot specialists recommend adding 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt to every quart of soaking water. Leave the affected foot submerged for 15-20 minutes, and repeat the treatment two to four times every day.

When the skin is wet and pliable, gently massage it away from the nail edge. Dry feet thoroughly after each soak to reduce the risk of fungal infection. 

Apply antibacterial cream.

Ingrown toenails create open wounds that are vulnerable to infection. To prevent this, apply a topical antibacterial cream daily and keep the area bandaged to add a layer of protection. If there are signs of worsening infection, such as pus or bleeding, contact a foot specialist immediately. 

Don’t:

Wear tight shoes.

Regular use of constrictive shoes, such as high heels or sneakers that are too small, is linked to the formation of ingrown nails. Pushing swollen feet into tight spaces puts pressure on the injury and worsens the irritation.

Wear open-toed shoes or sandals whenever possible. Have your feet measured and walk around in any shoes you plan to buy to test them for comfort.

Trim aggressively.

The main cause of ingrown toenails is improper clipping. Cutting a misshapen nail short will only encourage it to burrow deeper into the skin.

Trim flat across the top of the toe. Don’t curve or round the edges. Leave 1 to 2 millimeters overhanging the toe.

Exposing the red flesh under the nail causes pain and risk of infection. Cut nails when they’re dry to avoid tearing and ragged edges. Use toenail clippers since they’re stronger than fingernail trimmers and make cleaner cuts. 

If you need medical assistance with ingrown toenails or other foot-related ailments, contact the Podiatry Associates of Rochester. These foot specialists provide medical and surgical care to patients throughout Rochester, NY. They work with everyone, from infants to seniors. They offer two convenient, handicapped-accessible offices across the city, and their friendly staff is happy to answer any questions. Call (585) 342-8700 for their Portland Avenue office or (585) 426-7320 for the Buffalo Road building. Learn more about their services on their website.