D.I.Y. Relief for Ingrown Toenails

Many people often believe the misconception that ingrown toenails occur because the nail has been left to grow too long a length.

The reality is, however, that ingrown toenails occur due to cutting the nails too short. To treat ingrown nails with D.I.Y. relief at home, soak the feet in warm water and Epson salts before applying an antiseptic and bandage to the toe temporarily.

When clipping the toenails, be sure to leave 1/8 inch of the white tip showing. Clippers specifically for toenails should always be used to cut toenails, as they are larger and sturdier than fingernail clippers.

Ingrown toenails can be an easy fix if treated properly. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, contact Dr. Andrew H. Cohen, D.P.M. of the Mid-Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Cohen will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices, located in Saginaw and Essexville, MI. We offer all the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet your needs.

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