Ingrown toenails are a common but very uncomfortable foot problem that many people experience at some point in their lives. While they may start as a minor inconvenience, if left untreated, they can lead to more serious issues, such as infections. At footfeet, we believe that caring for your feet is essential to staying comfortable and active, so let’s dive into the causes of ingrown toenails, how to prevent them, and what you can do to treat them.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of your toenail penetrates where the skin meets the nail fold, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. The condition most commonly affects the big toe, but it can occur on any toenail. Ingrown toenails can make walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable, and if not treated properly, they can become infected, leading to further complications which can impact your quality of life.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. Here are some risk factors that make ingrown toenails more likely:
- Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
- Tight Footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow can put pressure on your toes, causing the nail to grow into the surrounding skin.
- Injury: Impact and trauma to the toenail, such as stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on your foot, can lead to an ingrown toenail.
- Genetics: Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape or curvature of their nails.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Failing to keep your feet clean and dry can lead to infections, making ingrown toenails more likely.
- Age: Ingrown toenails are more common in older people. This is because your nails get thicker with age.
Signs and Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail
The early signs of an ingrown toenail are usually easy to spot. Common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness along the sides of the toenail.
- Redness and swelling around the affected area.
- Hardening of the skin around the nail.
In moderate to severe cases, the symptoms will increase and you may notice infection with pus or drainage from the site of the ingrown nail. Toenail fungal infection and sores may develop on the skin (ulceration), and worsening inflammation and new skin growth (granulation) in the most severe cases.
Ingrown toenails are more likely to get infected in people who have diabetes or circulation problems.
Depending on how early you identify the issue, your treatment options will vary.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
Preventing ingrown toenails is often a matter of good foot care and taking a few simple precautions. Here’s how you can reduce your chances of developing this painful condition:
1. Trim Your Toenails Properly
One of the most effective ways to prevent ingrown toenails is by cutting your toenails straight across and avoiding rounding the corners. Briefly soak your foot in warm water before trimming to help soften them making trimming easier. Don’t cut the nails too short. Use clean, sharp nail clippers to avoid jagged edges.
Toenail Clippers
Gehwol med. Nail Softener
2. Wear Proper Footwear
Shoes that are too tight or narrow can squeeze your toes and increase the risk of ingrown toenails. Opt for shoes that have a wide toe box and provide enough room for your toes to move freely. If possible, avoid high heels or pointed shoes that put pressure on the toes.
3. Practice Good Foot Hygiene
Keep your feet clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection. Wash your feet daily with mild soap and water, making sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Try to avoid having sweaty feet, the sweat makes the skin soft and easier for toenails to dig in.
Akileine Green Very Strong Antiperspirant Foot Powder
Gehwol Fusskraft Green
Walker's Fresh Foot & Shoe Spray
2Toms FootShield
4. Protect Your Feet
If you're prone to ingrown toenails or have had them in the past, be mindful of activities that could cause trauma to your toes. Wear protective shoes when doing tasks like moving heavy objects, and be cautious to avoid injuring your toenails.
How to Treat Ingrown Toenails at Home
If you notice the early signs of an ingrown toenail, there are several steps you can take at home to relieve discomfort and prevent it from getting worse:
1. Soak Your Feet
Soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salts for 15-20 minutes, a few times a day, can help soften the skin around the nail and reduce swelling. This will also make it easier to gently lift the ingrown edge of the nail if needed.
2. Use an Antibacterial Ointment and protect the toe
Apply an antibacterial cream or ointment to the affected area to prevent infection. You may want to cover the ingrown toenail to keep it protected while it heals.
Spirularin NF Nailfold Cream
Silipos Antibacterial Silver Ion Digital Caps
3. Wear Comfortable Shoes
While healing, avoid wearing tight shoes or high heels that put pressure on the affected area. Opt for open-toed shoes or shoes with a wide toe box to reduce discomfort.
4. Avoid Cutting the Ingrown Nail
It might be tempting to dig into the skin or cut away the ingrown portion of the nail, but this can lead to infection or make the problem worse. Instead, if you need to lift the nail slightly, use clean cotton wool to thread under the nail edge to gently lift away from the skin.
When to See a Podiatrist
If your ingrown toenail becomes infected or the pain doesn't improve with home treatment, it’s important to seek medical advice from a podiatrist. This is especially crucial if you have underlying conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation, as these can increase the risk of complications. A podiatrist may recommend professional treatment, which could involve removing part of the nail or prescribing medication to prevent infection.
Ingrown toenails can be painful, but they’re also preventable and treatable with the right care.
Visit footfeet for footcare products designed to help relieve discomfort from ingrown toenails and promote healthy nail growth. Whether you’re looking for nail care tools, antibacterial creams, or open-toe footwear, we have the perfect products to help you keep your feet comfortable and healthy.
FAQS
Can you get ingrown toenails on any toe?
Yes, while ingrown toenails most commonly affect the big toe, they can occur on any toe. In some cases, patients may develop multiple ingrown toenails, which can be linked to medical conditions such as psoriasis or hormonal changes, like those that occur post-partum.
Can I use urea cream for ingrown toenails?
Urea cream is typically used to treat fungal toenails, as it helps reduce nail thickness and improves the nail plate’s permeability. If your ingrown toenail is caused by a thickened toenail, urea cream may be beneficial. Fungal infections can sometimes lead to ingrown toenails, so treating the infection with urea cream may also help address the ingrown nail.
Can bunions cause ingrown toenails?
Yes, bunions can lead to ingrown toenails, especially on the inside of the big toe. This is due to pressure from the bunion forcing the big toe against the second toe. Wearing well-fitted, wide shoes can help alleviate this pressure, but if the problem persists, ingrown toenail surgery may be necessary.
Can I treat an ingrown toenail at home?
Yes, if caught early, ingrown toenails can often be treated at home. Soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salts, applying an antibacterial ointment, and wearing open or wide-toed shoes can help alleviate discomfort. However, if the condition worsens or shows signs of infection, you should see a podiatrist for professional care.
When should I see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail?
You should consult a podiatrist if:
- The pain persists or worsens.
- You notice signs of infection, such as pus, swelling, or redness.
- You have a medical condition like diabetes or poor circulation that could complicate healing.
- The ingrown toenail is recurring or doesn't improve with home treatments.
Can an ingrown toenail become infected?
Yes, an untreated ingrown toenail can become infected. Infection signs include swelling, redness, warmth, pus, or discharge. Infections can worsen if left untreated and may spread to other parts of the foot. If you suspect an infection, it's essential to seek medical attention.
What treatments do podiatrists offer for ingrown toenails?
A podiatrist may perform treatments such as lifting the nail, removing part of the nail, or prescribing antibiotics if the nail is infected. In some cases, more permanent solutions may be recommended, such as surgery to remove part or all of the toenail to prevent future issues.
How can I relieve pain from an ingrown toenail?
To relieve pain from an ingrown toenail, soak your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes, apply an antibacterial ointment, and avoid shoes that put pressure on the area. Wearing open-toed shoes or sandals can also help reduce discomfort.
Are ingrown toenails more common in certain people?
Yes, people with certain foot structures, such as those with naturally curved nails, flat feet, or high arches, may be more prone to ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails are also common in athletes and people who wear tight, narrow shoes frequently.