Ingrown Toenails Treatment

What Are Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the corner, edge, or border of a toenail drives into the soft surrounding flesh, rather than grow out over the toe like normal. The big toe is by far the most commonly affected digit, but they can occur on other nails as well.

The resulting symptoms include pain, redness, swelling, tenderness and drainage — sometimes extreme. Ingrown toenails that do not resolve quickly may become infected.

There are several possible causes:

• External pressures. It could be that you’re wearing shoes that are too tight—or alternatively, so loose that your toes keep slamming into the front of the toe box. Constant pressure or injuries can drive the nail border downward and inward.
• Poor nail trimming. If you cut them too short or leave them too long, they are more likely to become ingrown. Keep them at a medium length, and try not to round the corners too much.
• You were born that way. Unfortunately, some people are simply more prone to developing ingrown toenails due to the way that their toes or nails are shaped.

What Can I Do About My Ingrown Toenails?

Home Care

As we said, professional care for ingrown toenails is quick, easy, and painless. So regardless of the state your toenails are in, we’re always happy to help!

That said, mild ingrown toenails which are not causing a major disruption in your lifestyle may sometimes resolve themselves on their own. You can try giving yourself a warm foot soak each day with Epsom salt, or taking over-the-counter medications to alleviate temporary discomfort.

However, you should seek professional care under the any of following circumstances:

• Pain is severe or interfering with daily activities.
• There is any sign of infection.
• Your condition has not improved or gotten worse after several days of home care.
• You have diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy, or any other condition that could complicate your recovery.