Ingrown toenails can be a painful and bothersome condition, impacting daily activities and causing discomfort. In this blog post, we'll explore the various treatment options available for ingrown toenails, from at-home remedies to professional interventions. Whether you're seeking immediate relief or looking for preventative measures, read on to discover the most effective ingrown toenail treatments to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
Understanding Ingrown Toenails:
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation, inflammation, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or genetic factors.
At-Home Remedies for Mild Cases:
Warm Water Soaks:
Warm Water Soaks: Soak your feet in warm water with a pinch of Epsom salt to reduce swelling and soften the skin.
Gentle Nail Trimming: Trim your toenails straight across to prevent them from growing into the skin.
Cotton Ball Placement: Place a small piece of cotton under the ingrown edge to encourage proper nail growth.
Avoid Tight Footwear: Opt for shoes with adequate toe room to reduce pressure on the affected area.
Over-the-Counter Topical Treatments:
Antibiotic Ointments:
Antibiotic Ointments: Apply over-the-counter antibiotic ointments to prevent or treat infection.
Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Professional Ingrown Toenail Treatments:
Dr. Johnston will typically recommend a simple non permanent ingrown toenail removal
for mild ingrown toenails. For more severe cases, Dr. Johnston recommends permanent removal of the involved toenail margin with an in office procedure.
Partial Nail Avulsion: In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend removing a portion of the ingrown toenail to promote proper growth. Dr. Johnston typically provides simple temporary procedures or permanent procedures.
Prescription Medications: Your podiatrist may prescribe oral antibiotics if there is an infection, or topical steroids to reduce inflammation.
Ingrown Toenail Surgery:For recurrent or persistent cases, surgical options such as a matrixectomy may be considered to prevent the nail from growing into the skin.
Prevention Tips for Ingrown Toenails:
Proper Nail Trimming:
Trim toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges.
Correct Footwear: Wear shoes that provide adequate toe space and avoid tight, narrow shoes.
Foot Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry to prevent infection.
Regular Podiatric Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to a podiatrist for preventive care and early intervention.
Conclusion:
Ingrown toenails can be effectively managed with the right treatments and preventive measures. From at-home remedies to professional interventions, there are various options available to relieve pain and promote proper nail growth. If you're experiencing persistent or severe ingrown toenail issues, it's crucial to call Dr. Johnston in Perrysburg or Toledo for an evaluation.
Give Dr. Johnston a Call at Heel and Toe Podiatry
419-474-7700
Comments