Prevent Ingrown Toenails With These 3 Tips
Developing painful ingrown toenails is, unfortunately, a common problem that can progress to bleeding, oozing, and possible bacterial or fungal infection. With some easy, proactive tips, you can help eliminate the factors that can lead to a painful ingrown toenail forming in the first place.
You can help prevent ingrown toenails with these 3 great tips:
Cut your toenails correctly—Probably the major cause of ingrown toenails developing is improper toenail cutting. If you always trim them straight across and a little on the long side, then the sharp leading edge is likely to grow into the tender skin.
Use proper foot protection—The trauma of injuring your foot or toe by stubbing, twisting, or dropping a heavy object on it can contribute to ingrown toenails. Wearing shoes with steel toes can prevent many injuries to the front of the foot.
Wear the right shoes with the proper orthotics—Wear shoes with a wide toe box to allow your toes to move. Avoid tight-fitting shoes like high heels since they push your toes together and cause ingrown toenails to develop. Orthotic inserts optimally placed can redirect pressure from problem areas. See your foot doctor for a gait analysis.
For any pain and discomfort, you may be experiencing from ingrown toenails, see your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment protocols. James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ (in Mercer County), is a board-certified podiatrist providing state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options for all foot types of ankle injuries, diseases, and deformities. From hammertoes and bunions to diabetic foot problems and sports injuries, you can rest assured that Dr. Ricketti and his staff will get you back on your feet as fast as possible. Please contact our office with any questions or to schedule an appointment. Call 609-587-1674.