Reduce Your Risk of Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail is more than a nuisance. It’s an uncomfortable condition that can lead to infection and leave you unable to enjoy your regular activities. How much do you know about spotting, preventing, and treating this common complaint?

Spotting an Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail occurs when a toenail grows directly into the skin. Anyone can get an ingrown toenail. Men, women, and children are all at risk. Women who prefer high-heeled shoes with cramped, pointy toe boxes are at increased risk, as these shoes squeeze the toes together and do not allow for natural movement of the toes or growth of the nails.

Signs of an ingrown toenail include:

• difficulty wearing shoes, standing, walking, or exercising comfortably

• redness or swelling where the nail meets the skin

• pus

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

The best thing you can do to reduce your risk of an ingrown toenail is to trim toenails regularly with a clipper made just for that task. Don’t use scissors. Trim straight across – don’t round the corners! – and use an emery board if you notice any sharp edges. Be sure to wear sensible everyday shoes that leave room for the toes to wiggle.

Treating Ingrown Toenails

If you suspect an ingrown toenail, avoid the temptation to pick or cut at it. Further injury or even infection can result. Instead, schedule a visit with an expert foot doctor like Anne Arundel County podiatrists Dr. James M. McKee and Dr. Adam Weaver. With years of training and experience, your foot doctor is a medical specialist and the best-qualified professional to examine, diagnose, and treat any illnesses or injuries to this part of your body.

Are you worried about an ingrown toenail, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? Call the friendly Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment today in our modern, comfortable office on Old Solomons Island Road.