Is an ingrown toenail causing you pain and shame? Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland of Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Silver Spring, Kensington, Laurel, and Maple Lawn, MD, is the podiatrist to have on your team for relief.
Preventative Steps
In some cases, ingrown toenails form due to genetics or an injury to the toe. However, in most cases, they occur due to regular everyday habits and improper toenail care. The following tips can help prevent such cases.
- Wear shoes that fit comfortably: Undue pressure on the toes is a common culprit, and that pressure typically comes from wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe area. When you purchase shoes, be sure that your toes have plenty of space.
- Avoid high heels: High heels tend to push the foot forward, which leads to pressure on the toenails. If you’re going to wear shoes with heels, keep them low.
- Trim straight across: When trimming your toenails, never cut them in a curved shape. This allows the sides of the nail to grow into the skin. Cut the straight across.
- Leave some white at the end: Toenails that are too short also tend to grow into the skin. When trimming, leave some of the white part of the nail.
Treatment
If you develop an ingrown toenail, you can find temporary relief by soaking your feet in lukewarm saltwater. You should also apply an antibiotic if it’s infected. Additionally, follow the preventative measures above.
It’s important to schedule an appointment with your foot doctor to determine the severity of your condition and begin any necessary treatment before it worsens. Depending on your specific needs, your foot doctor might recommend lifting the nail, removing part of the nail, or removing the entire nail and the impacted tissue.
Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland of Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Silver Spring, Kensington, Laurel, and Maple Lawn, MD, to determine the best course of treatment for your needs. You can reach our team at (301) 924-5044.