20 Jul 3 Tips to Avoid Ingrown Toenails
Symptoms of an ingrown toenail will include swelling, pain, tenderness, and possible bleeding at the point where the toenail is pushing into your tender skin. One of the leading causes of an ingrown toenail is from improper toenail cutting techniques. Once an ingrown toenail has started, it can be challenging to treat, so be sure to see your podiatrist.
These 3 tips will help you avoid developing an ingrown toenail:
- Cut your toenails carefully—Poor toenail cutting is one of the leading causes of ingrown toenails. Try to cut your toenails a little long and just on a slight curve to keep the sharp leading edge of the nail from growing into your tender skin. If you have trouble cutting your toenails, have it done at your foot doctor’s office to avoid any accidents or injuries. It is important for patients who have diabetes.
- Wear supportive shoes that are properly fitted and not too tight— Tightly fitting shoes like high heels are bad for your feet because they force extra weight behind your toes and push your toes together putting excessive pressure on the sides of the toenails. Wearing shoes with a wider toe box and deeper heel cup will give your toes room to move and alleviate side pressure that can cause an ingrown toenail.
- Prevent toe injuries—Accidents such as from dropping a heavy object like a laptop on your foot can cause a toe injury that redirects toenail growth into your tender skin. Wearing steel-toed shoes in certain dangerous jobs is a good idea to prevent serious toe injury.
For ingrown toenail problems, be sure to see your podiatrist for the best care. If you have pain from any type of injury or have any concerns about your foot and ankle health, make an appointment with Alta Ridge Foot Specialists at one of our three offices at 105 Chestnut Street, Mars Hill or 440 Alta Pass Highway, Spruce Pine or 2211 NC Hwy 105, Boone NC. We are a proud member of the Instride Foot and Ankle Partnership, a statewide partnership of doctors dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care to our patients. Dr. W. Aaron Broyles, Dr. Robert L. Van Brederode, and Dr. Thomas Verla and their staff look forward to serving you. Contact us today!