Ingrown toenails are more than just a nagging annoyance; they’re a common, persistent condition that can cause recurring pain if not properly treated. As a podiatrist, I see these cases often they can affect anyone, at any age, and they don’t discriminate based on activity level. The good news? Ingrown toenails don’t have to be a lifelong problem! Here, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about treating and preventing ingrown toenails, from at-home care to medical treatments that offer lasting relief.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
If you’ve ever had an ingrown toenail, you know the symptoms well: redness, swelling, and pain around the nail, sometimes accompanied by pus if an infection sets in. An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, cutting into the tissue and creating a small wound that can worsen with time. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail can easily become infected, making early intervention essential.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails
While anyone can develop an ingrown toenail, several factors make it more likely.
- Genetics: If curved or inward-growing nails run in your family, you may be more prone to ingrown toenails.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing tight shoes or those with narrow toe boxes can press the nail into the skin, especially during long periods of walking or exercise.
- Nail Trauma: Stubbing your toe, repeated kicking in sports, certain pedicure techniques or a toenail fungal infection can all change the shape of the nail, encouraging it to grow inward.
- Nail Care Habits: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can make it easier for the nail to start growing into the skin.
Effective Treatments for Ingrown Toenails At-Home Relief
If you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail, taking the right steps at home can reduce pain and help prevent infection before you see a podiatrist. Soaking your foot in warm salt water for 15-20 minutes can soften the nail, ease discomfort, and act as a natural antiseptic. After soaking, apply an antiseptic like Betadine and cover the area with a sterile bandage to help protect against bacteria.
Professional Treatment
When you visit a podiatrist, they’ll assess the severity of your ingrown toenail and choose the best treatment option. For mild cases, a technique called “packing” may be used. Here, a small piece of cotton or foam is gently placed between the nail and the skin to relieve pressure and guide the nail to grow outward. This conservative method can show positive results with a few follow-up visits.
For chronic or severe cases, a minor surgical procedure called Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) may be recommended. Under local anaesthesia, a thin strip of the affected nail is removed, and the root area is treated to prevent regrowth, leaving a slightly narrower nail. This in-office procedure typically takes less than an hour, and open-toed shoes are advised afterwards to reduce pressure on the healing nail. Most people are fully healed within 3 to 4 weeks.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Prevention starts with proper nail care and footwear. Here are a few key tips:
- Cut Nails Straight Across: Avoid rounding the corners, which can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. If needed, use a nail file to gently smooth the edges instead.
- Choose Shoes with a Spacious Toe Box: This prevents pressure on the toes, which is especially important if you’re on your feet a lot.
- Skip Nail Picking: Resist the urge to pick at your nails; it can easily lead to ingrown growth.
Don’t Let Ingrown Toenails Hold You Back
Ingrown toenails can range from minor irritations to serious pain that interferes with daily life. If you’re dealing with recurring discomfort or have an ingrown toenail that doesn’t improve with home care, consider visiting a podiatrist for a lasting solution. Whether through conservative treatment or a simple procedure, you can regain pain-free steps and prevent future problems.
