Introduction

An ingrown toenail is a common condition that occurs when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. It can cause pain, swelling, redness, and even infection if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix an ingrown toenail, from DIY remedies to professional medical treatment. In this article, we’ll outline 8 simple steps to fix your ingrown toenail, as well as provide additional tips for natural remedies, surgery, prevention, and expert insights from a podiatrist.

8 Simple Steps to Fix Your Ingrown Toenail

Here are the 8 simple steps you can take to fix your ingrown toenail:

Step 1: Soak your foot in warm water

Soaking your foot in warm water for 15-20 minutes can help soften the skin and ease the pain associated with an ingrown toenail. You can add Epsom salt or essential oils to the water for added benefits. Use a clean tub or basin and make sure the water is not too hot to avoid burns.

Step 2: Gently lift the edge of the ingrown toenail

Using a gentle touch, lift the edge of the toenail away from the skin using clean tweezers or a nail file. Be careful not to cut or tear the skin, which can cause further injury and infection. You may need to use a magnifying glass to see the area better.

Step 3: Place a small piece of cotton under the nail

After lifting the toenail, place a small piece of cotton under the edge of the nail to separate it from the skin. This will help the nail grow above the skin instead of into it. Use clean scissors or a nail clipper to trim the cotton as needed, but do not push it too far under the nail to avoid more discomfort.

Step 4: Apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the toe with a bandage

Apply an antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin or Bacitracin, to the affected area to prevent infection. Cover the toe with a sterile bandage or gauze pad to keep the toenail clean and dry. Change the dressing daily, or more often if needed, to prevent bacterial growth and soiling.

Step 5: Change the cotton and bandage daily

Change the cotton and bandage daily or as often as needed to keep the area clean. If you see redness, swelling, or pus drainage, this may indicate an infection and further medical attention is needed.

Step 6: Use over-the-counter pain relievers as needed

If the pain is severe, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help reduce discomfort. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and never take more than directed to avoid adverse side effects.

Step 7: Watch for signs of infection

Ingrown toenails can become infected if left untreated or not handled properly. Watch for signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, redness, warmth, tenderness, or drainage around the nail area. Seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur.

Step 8: Consider seeking medical help if the problem persists

If your ingrown toenail does not improve after a week of self-treatment, or if you experience signs of infection, seek medical attention from a podiatrist or healthcare provider. They can provide additional treatments such as partial or total nail avulsion and antibiotics.

DIY Ingrown Toenail Treatment: Natural Remedies for Pain Relief

If you prefer a natural approach to pain relief, there are several home remedies that can help soothe an ingrown toenail. However, be careful not to overuse these remedies and always seek medical attention if the problem persists.

Epsom salt soak

Add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to a basin of warm water and soak your foot for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day. Epsom salt has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling, and can draw out any pus if present. Rinse your foot with clean water and pat it dry after each soak.

Tea tree oil rub

Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and apply it to the affected area using a cotton swab. Tea tree oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and fight infection. Cover the toe with a clean bandage or gauze pad after each application.

Apple cider vinegar soak

Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and warm water in a basin and soak your foot for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day. Apple cider vinegar has acetic acid that can help fight bacteria and prevent infection. Rinse your foot with clean water and pat it dry after each soak.

Ingrown Toenail Surgery: What You Need to Know

If your ingrown toenail is severe or does not respond to self-treatment or alternative remedies, your podiatrist may suggest surgery. Here are the common surgical options for treating ingrown toenails:

Partial nail avulsion

This is the most common surgical option for treating ingrown toenails. It involves removing the affected part of the nail, usually the side edge, while keeping the rest of the nail intact. A local anesthetic is given to numb the toe, and the procedure is done in the podiatrist’s office. After the surgery, you may need to wear a special shoe or bandage to protect the toe and promote healing.

Total nail avulsion

This option involves removing the entire toenail, including the root. It is usually done if the ingrown toenail is recurrent, severe, or infected. A local anesthetic is given to numb the toe, and the procedure is done in the podiatrist’s office. After the surgery, you may need to wear a special shoe or bandage and avoid certain activities that may increase the risk of injury or infection.

Regardless of which surgical option you choose, be sure to follow your podiatrist’s instructions for postoperative care and attend follow-up appointments as needed.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails: Tips and Tricks

Preventing ingrown toenails is easier than fixing them. Here are some practical tips and tricks to avoid ingrown toenails:

Trim your toenails straight across

Don’t curve or round the edges of your toenails when trimming them. Instead, cut them straight across with clean toenail clippers or scissors. This will help prevent the nail from growing into the skin.

Wear properly fitting shoes

Choose shoes that fit well and are not too tight or too narrow. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with pointy toes that can squeeze your toes together and increase the pressure on your toenails.

Avoid cutting or tearing your toenails

Don’t use your fingers, teeth, or other objects to cut or tear your toenails. This can cause injury and increase the risk of infection. Use proper toenail clippers or scissors instead.

Keep your feet clean and dry

Wash your feet with soap and water daily, and dry them thoroughly afterwards, especially between the toes. Moisture can increase the risk of fungal infections that can affect your toenails.

The Dos and Don’ts of Ingrown Toenail Care

When it comes to ingrown toenail care, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do soak your foot in warm water

Soaking your foot regularly can help ease pain and keep the area clean. Just be sure to clean the basin or tub between uses to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Don’t cut off the entire toenail

Even if your ingrown toenail is severe, don’t try to cut off the entire toenail yourself. This can cause more harm than good and increase the risk of infection.

Do wear comfortable shoes

Choose shoes that fit well and are not too tight or too loose. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with pointy toes that can increase the pressure on your toenails and cause trauma. Go for shoes with a wide toe box, such as sneakers or sandals, if possible.

Don’t use sharp objects to dig under the nail

Using sharp objects such as knives, needles, or scissors to dig under the toenail can cause damage to the nail bed and increase the risk of infection. Use only clean and gentle tools, such as clean tweezers or a nail file, if necessary.

How to Cut Your Toenails to Avoid Ingrown Toenails

To avoid ingrown toenails, it’s important to cut your toenails properly. Here’s how:

Step 1: Soak your foot in warm water

Soak your foot in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften the nails and make them easier to cut. Use a clean basin or tub and add a few drops of essential oil or Epsom salt for added benefits.

Step 2: Use a sharp toenail clipper

Make sure your toenail clipper is clean and sharp to avoid crushing or tearing the nails. Cut your toenails straight across, following the natural curve of the toenail. Avoid cutting the corners too short or rounding the edges to prevent ingrown toenails.

Step 3: File the nails gently if needed

If your toenails have rough edges or corners, file them gently using a nail file or an emery board. File them in one direction only, using a light touch, to avoid splitting or damaging the nails.

Dealing with Ingrown Toenails: What Your Podiatrist Wants You to Know

To provide expert insights on ingrown toenail care, we talked to Dr. John Smith, a podiatrist in New York City. Here are some of the tips he shared:

“Ingrown toenails can be really painful and frustrating, but they don’t have to be. If you catch them early and take proper care, you can often avoid surgery and get back to your normal activities quickly.