Shoe inserts are a great option for treating all types of foot pain, and can be customized to treat specific types of conditions. The most common type of shoe insert is an insole, which covers the bottom of the shoe. This type of shoe insert reforms the base of the foot to be more supportive of the arch and foot itself. They can either be bought at a drugstore or prescribed and molded by a doctor (these are called orthotics). These insoles are best suited for conditions that are caused by imbalance in the foot’s ligaments, joints, or tendons. Common conditions of this nature include fallen arches, high arches, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis. However, there are also shoe inserts for ingrown toenails.
Shoe inserts for ingrown toenails differ from other forms of inserts because they treat a completely different issue. Since ingrown toenails are caused by pressure on the corner of the toenail, the shoe inserts used to treat it must be in this area. These inserts can help avoid the nail growing into the skin in a few ways. Toe caps are gel like inserts for ingrown toenails that cover the toe itself. These soft gel coverings prevent excess pressure on the nail and can also help keep the skin soft.
Inserts for ingrown toenails can be helpful at preventing an ingrown from getting worse, or protecting a toe that is especially prone to them during strenuous exercise. However, they are no replacement for medical attention from a licensed podiatrist. A licensed podiatrist will be able to provide a diagnosis and effective treatment for your condition. This should hopefully eliminate the need for measures like gel toe caps, and allow you to function normally without ingrown toenails. To schedule your consultation with a podiatrist, give us a call at (424)-299-4627 or visit our website for more information.