Are you experiencing pain, swelling, tenderness, and redness around your toenails? You could have ingrown toenails that result when your nails grow into soft flesh and often affect the big toe. Blackhorse Ranch ingrown toenail is prevalent during adolescence since feet tend to perspire more, leading to softening of the skin and nails. Besides pain and swelling, ingrown toenails can cause inflammation and infection among individuals with diabetes. If the pain is severe, or you see inflamed skin spreading or pus, you should also seek immediate medical attention. Besides treatment, you can also prevent ingrown toenails with a few practical measures, including:

Toenail length

You want your toenails trimmed, especially considering how painful it can get if you bump into something. However, you shouldn’t trim them too short. You should trim the nails level with the tips of the toes. If you trip them beyond that, you will encourage ingrown toenails. This is because the pressure, including from the shoes, pushes them and directs them to grow into the skin tissue. Maintaining a moderate length is recommended, which won’t be a concern since you will hardly experience significant pain if you stub your toe.

Toenail trimming

Do you tend to curve the nail as you trim to try and match them to the shape of your toe tip? It seems like a good idea for the looks, but you encourage ingrown toenails with such habits. Instead, cut your nails straight across. If you get the toes trimmed during a pedicure session, ensure to inform the expert to cut them across. If you have diabetes or other conditions that impact blood flow to your feet, you should see a podiatrist to help with nail trimming, especially if you are likely to cut or scrap yourself.

Footwear choice

Your footwear can’t be emphasized enough as you strive to keep your feet fit and healthy. When considering ingrown toenails, the right fit is essential in ensuring the shoes do not put excess pressure on the toes. If the shoes are tight, they can pinch the nails or push them, directing their growth into the surrounding skin tissue. Wear shoes that fit and leave enough room for the toes to move freely, especially if you have nerve problems that could mean you may not feel the pain.

Protective footwear

Does your routine expose you to an increased risk of injuring the toes? If your routine includes running and kicking, you are likely to injure your toes and nails, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails. Protective gear such as steel-toed shoes can help mitigate injury risks, helping you prevent ingrown toenails.

Routine feet self-examination

Checking your feet may not be at the top of your mind. However, the routine, ideally daily, can help you spot developing issues, including ingrown toenails. This is more so if you have nerve issues such as due to diabetes, which means you can be hurt without sensing the pain or discomfort.

Ingrown toenails can result in serious complications, including skin and bone infections. You may need surgery if the problem recurs or you develop complications. Contact Cypress Foot & Ankle Center today for more on ingrown toenails and treatment options.