Treating & Preventing Ingrown Toenails

Having the edge of your toenail growing into the tender skin on the side of your toe is an extremely painful condition and it can also lead to a fungal toenail or bacterial infection. The major cause of ingrown toenails is from improper nail cutting technique or from wearing tight fitting shoes like high heels.

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include severe pain and swelling where the edge of the nail is pushing into the skin. The toe will feel extremely tender to touch and there may be signs of bleeding and infection. Pus and a bad odor from an infection may also be evident.

Ingrown toenails can be prevented by practicing the following tips:

• Always cut your toenails straight across and not too short

• Wear shoes that are supportive but not too tight and that have a large toe box area so your toes won’t rub on the inside of your shoes

• Make sure your footwear is appropriate for the activity you are doing

Treatment for ingrown toenails includes the following:

• Warm foot socks

• Elevation to take the pressure off the toe and relieve swelling and pain

• Seeing your podiatrist for surgical procedures to improve your nail

If you are experiencing the pain and discomfort of difficult ingrown toenails, see your podiatrist for the proper treatment. At E.J. Nemet, DPM in Twinsburg, OH, Dr. Nemet treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions that commonly plague his patients. Podiatric issues include sports injuries, pediatric foot problems, diabetic foot complications, nerve disorders, and toenail and skin conditions. Dr. Nemet, together with his dedicated staff, provides expert and compassionate care to patients in the Twinsburg and Beachwood areas. To contact us or to schedule an appointment, please call (234) 212-9940.