Help I think I’ve got an ingrown toenail!
What is an ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail as the name suggests in a nail that is ‘ingrown’.
But what does this actually mean, an ingrown toenail is when there is a spike of nail growing into the skin, this can often be confused with a nail that is ‘involuted’ an involuted nail doesn’t pierce into the skin it just causes a lot of discomfort growing towards the skin in a curling shape. An ingrown toenail can become very red, swollen and painful to touch which is when patients usually get in touch with us!
How do you get an ingrown toenail?
Poor nail cutting skills - cutting your nails too short or cutting the corners off your nails will encourage the skin to fold over the edge of the nail leading to the nail growing into the toe.
Wearing tight fitting shoes or tights/socks this puts pressure on the side of the nail.
Unfortunately it can also be due to the natural shape of nail - if your nails are naturally curved, there is an increased chance of a nail growing in. This is also the case with really curved toes!
Injury may also cause an ingrown toenail - stubbing your foot or dropping something on your foot can result in an ingrown toenail.
What you can do to help prevent an infection starting up in the affected nail:
Keep your feet clean and dry
Change your socks regularly
Soak your feet in salt baths.
Cut your toenails straight to the shape of your toe to prevent ay spur of nail growing in
Wear comfortable shoes that do not pinch at the toes
How to prevent an ingrown nail?
Taking a small amount of time, even once a week, to look after your feet will help reduce the risk of an ingrown nail.
Cutting your nails straight across to the shape of the toe, not at an angle or down the sides is best
Wash your feet regularly, dry them thoroughly and apply a foot moisturiser ideally a cream that contains urea as it nourishes all layers of the skin.
Applying a nail oil can make your nails a little softer, this makes the nail less likely to hurt if it is pushed against the skin.
So what should I do now?
Make an appointment to see us and we have a number of solutions that we can offer you!
