You may have noticed that some people naturally have more of a tendency to develop ingrown toenails than others. This is because ingrown toenails are thought to be controlled largely by a genetic component and can be hereditary, meaning the predisposition runs in families. However, there are some behaviors that promote the development of ingrown toenails. Below are some dos and don’ts regarding ingrown toenails that you should follow.
DO: Use sharp toenail clippers. Most of us are guilty of using the same clippers for both fingernails and toenails; however, toenail clippers are specially designed to be used for toenails since they are wider, and therefore make it easier to cut straight across. This minimizes the risk of curving corners that may develop into ingrown toenails.
DON’T: Make your nails too short. When you cut your toenails too short, as the nail grows out it may grow into the flesh that is not covered by the existing nail. So, try to keep your nails at a length such that they cover the nail bed and the toes entirely.
DO: Wear the right size of shoe. Many people, and especially women, are guilty of wearing shoes that are too small for them. When you do this, it creates pressure on the corners of your toes, especially the big toe, and can force the nail to grow into the flesh. This results in an ingrown toenail.
And most importantly…
DON’T: Play surgeon! Because ingrown toenails can be so painful, many people resort to what is commonly called “bathroom surgery” and deploy the use of scissors, dental floss and/or cotton pads or balls. This almost always results in profuse bleeding and infection. If you do not see any signs of infection, you can try soaking your feet in warm water for temporary comfort. However, the best option is to consult with one of your podiatrists to seek medical attention. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our licensed podiatrists at one of our over 80 locations.