How To Fix An Ingrown Toenail: A Comprehensive Guide

Ingrown toenails are a common condition where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection.

Although ingrown toenails can affect anyone, they are most common in the big toe and tend to occur more frequently in people who wear tight shoes or cut their nails incorrectly.

Thankfully, most ingrown toenails can be managed at home, though severe cases may require professional treatment. In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options available for ingrown toenails in Australia.

What Is An Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation and pain.

Over time, this can lead to inflammation and sometimes infection. The big toe is the most commonly affected, but any toenail can become ingrown.

Ingrown toenails often develop when the nail grows too large for the toe or when it is improperly trimmed, either too short or in a curved manner. This improper trimming can force the nail to dig into the surrounding soft tissue, resulting in pain and swelling.

Causes Of Ingrown Toenails

  • Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the corners can lead to an ingrown toenail. Nails should be trimmed straight across to avoid encouraging the edges to grow into the skin.
  • Tight or Ill-fitting Footwear: Shoes that squeeze your toes, such as narrow-toed shoes or high heels, can put excessive pressure on your nails and increase the risk of an ingrown toenail.
  • Injury to the Toenail: Trauma, such as stubbing your toe or dropping something on it, can lead to abnormal nail growth, increasing the likelihood of the nail becoming ingrown.
  • Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing ingrown toenails due to the shape or thickness of their nails.
  • Sweaty Feet: Excess moisture can weaken the skin and increase the risk of an infection if an ingrown toenail forms.
  • Poor Foot Hygiene: Not cleaning or drying your feet properly can lead to fungal infections or make your skin more prone to injury from the toenail.

Home Remedies For Ingrown Toenails

In many cases, you can manage an ingrown toenail at home with simple treatments. Here are some effective home remedies to consider:

Warm Soak

Soaking your foot in warm water can help reduce swelling, soften the nail, and relieve pain. To do this:

  • Fill a basin with warm water.
  • Add Epsom salts or a mild antiseptic solution to help cleanse the area.
  • Soak your foot for 15–20 minutes, two to three times a day.

This can reduce inflammation and soften the skin, which makes it easier to lift the nail away from the skin.

Cotton Or Dental Floss Method

To ease the nail out of the skin, you can try the cotton or dental floss method. After soaking your foot, gently lift the edge of the ingrown toenail with a sterile tool like a cotton ball or dental floss and place a small piece of cotton or floss underneath the nail.

  • Carefully lift the nail and place the cotton or dental floss underneath it.
  • Change the cotton or floss daily and continue soaking your foot.

This method can help guide the nail to grow out properly without cutting into the skin.

Topical Antiseptic Creams

If your ingrown toenail is showing signs of infection, applying an over-the-counter antiseptic cream can help prevent bacteria from causing further harm. Use a clean cotton swab to apply a thin layer of antiseptic on the affected area.

If an infection is suspected, consider using a topical antibiotic ointment like Neosporin, available in Australia, to help prevent the infection from worsening. Be sure to cover the toe with a clean bandage after application.

Pain Relief

Non-prescription painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help alleviate the pain and reduce inflammation. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult with your GP if you have any concerns about using these medications.

Professional Treatment Options

If your ingrown toenail persists or becomes severely infected, seeking help from a healthcare professional is essential. Here are some professional treatments that may be recommended:

Nail Removal

In more severe cases, a podiatrist or doctor may recommend partial or complete removal of the ingrown toenail. This is typically done under local anaesthesia, so the procedure is painless.

  • Partial Removal: Only the portion of the nail that is ingrown will be removed. This is often done if the ingrown nail is causing significant pain or infection.
  • Complete Removal: If the ingrown toenail is recurrent or too damaged, the entire nail may be removed. In this case, the nail bed may be treated to prevent the nail from growing back.

Nail Bed Destruction (Matrixectomy)

For chronic cases where ingrown toenails keep recurring, a podiatrist may recommend a procedure called a matrixectomy. This involves destroying the part of the nail matrix (the tissue at the base of the nail) that produces the toenail, preventing the nail from growing back.

Matrixectomy can be done chemically (using a caustic solution) or surgically. Although effective, it is generally reserved for severe, persistent cases.

Antibiotics

If your ingrown toenail has become infected, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. In more serious cases, oral antibiotics may be required, but topical antibiotics can often be effective for mild infections.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

While not all ingrown toenails can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this painful condition:

  • Trim Toenails Properly: Cut your nails straight across, avoiding curved or angled cuts. Don’t cut them too short, as this can lead to the nail growing into the skin.
  • Wear Proper-Fitting Footwear: Ensure that your shoes provide adequate room for your toes. Avoid tight shoes, high heels, and narrow-toed footwear that may squeeze your toes together.
  • Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Wash your feet regularly with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. This helps prevent infection and keeps the skin healthy.
  • Wear Comfortable Socks: Choose socks made of breathable materials, such as cotton or wool, to reduce sweating and prevent fungal infections.
  • Treat Foot Conditions: If you have foot problems like bunions or hammertoes, which can increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails, consult a podiatrist for advice on managing these conditions.

Conclusion

Ingrown toenails can be both painful and frustrating, but most cases can be managed effectively with early intervention.

From home remedies like warm soaks and proper nail trimming to professional treatments such as nail removal or antibiotics, there is a range of solutions available to help you get back on your feet.

Prevention is key, so be sure to wear well-fitting shoes and take care when trimming your toenails to reduce the risk of developing ingrown toenails in the future.

If you experience persistent pain, signs of infection, or other complications, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice. A podiatrist or GP will help you find the best treatment and guide you through the healing process.

By taking care of your feet and addressing ingrown toenails promptly, you can maintain good foot health and continue enjoying daily activities without discomfort.

Frequently Ask Question

What Should I Do If My Ingrown Toenail Becomes Infected?

If your ingrown toenail shows signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus, you should apply a topical antiseptic or antibiotic ointment and cover it with a clean bandage.

If the infection doesn’t improve or worsens, seek medical advice from a doctor or podiatrist. In severe cases, oral antibiotics may be necessary.

How Long Does It Take For An Ingrown Toenail To Heal?

The healing time for an ingrown toenail can vary depending on the severity and treatment.

Mild cases may heal within a few days to a week with proper care, while more severe cases, especially those involving infection, may take longer. Following your doctor’s or podiatrist’s recommendations can help speed up the healing process.

Are There Any Long-Term Complications Of Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to chronic infections, abscess formation, and even bone infections in rare cases.

In some individuals, recurring ingrown toenails may cause permanent changes to the nail shape or require repeated treatments, such as nail removal. Proper care and timely treatment can help prevent long-term complications.

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