Isla Bennett
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem, often affecting the big toe. The condition occurs when the nail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can become infected, with bacteria entering through the broken skin. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove part or all of the nail. While this procedure effectively prevents the recurrence of ingrown toenails, it can increase the likelihood of the nail growing back deformed. To reduce the risk of infection and the need for surgery, proper nail trimming techniques and foot care are essential.
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What You'll Learn
Ingrown toenail removal methods
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem that usually affects the big toe but can occur on any toe. It happens when the toenail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness. In some cases, an ingrown toenail can become infected, leading to the release of pus.
Most ingrown toenails can be treated at home without the need for surgery. Proper nail trimming is the best way to prevent and treat ingrown toenails. Nails should be cut straight across the top, avoiding cutting down into the corners or picking and tearing at the nails. Keeping your feet clean by washing them regularly with soap and water can also help prevent infections.
If home remedies are unsuccessful, a healthcare provider may recommend the following treatments:
- Lifting the nail: For slightly ingrown nails, a healthcare provider may lift the nail edge and place cotton, dental floss, or a splint under it to separate it from the skin. The nail is then expected to grow above the skin edge within 2 to 12 weeks.
- Taping the nail: This method involves pulling the skin away from the ingrown nail with tape.
- Placing a gutter splint under the nail: A tiny slit tube is placed underneath the embedded nail to separate it from the skin. The tube remains in place until the nail grows above the skin edge.
In more severe cases of ingrown toenails, surgery may be recommended. Some common surgical procedures include:
- Wedge resection or partial nail avulsion: The doctor removes a portion of the toenail to prevent it from growing into the skin. This procedure carries a risk of toenail deformity, where the nail may grow back misshapen or deformed.
- Toenail removal or complete nail plate avulsion: This involves removing the entire toenail. It increases the risk of future ingrown toenails due to potential nail deformity.
- Surgery on the tip of the toe: When other surgeries are unsuitable or have failed, soft tissue at the tip of the toe is removed and reshaped.
- Matrixectomy: If nail removal or wedge resection is unsuccessful, the nail bed may be removed along with the nail.
After surgery, it is important to keep the wound bandaged until it heals and take pain relievers as needed. The recovery process may also include soaking the toe, applying a wet compress, and resting with the foot elevated.
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Preventing infection after toenail removal
Ingrown toenail removal is a common procedure, and it usually heals without complications. However, it is still important to take steps to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Here are some detailed instructions to prevent infection and promote healing after toenail removal:
Keep the Wound Clean and Dressed
It is crucial to keep the wound clean and dressed to prevent infection. Wash the toe with mild soap and warm water or saline solution to gently cleanse the area. Ensure that the toe is completely dry before applying a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Cover the wound with a sterile dressing, such as gauze, securing it with medical tape. Change the dressing regularly, typically once or twice daily or as directed by your healthcare provider. Keep the wound covered for the first week, and then you may leave it uncovered at night during the second week to promote airflow and aid healing.
Pain Management and Activity Modifications
Manage any pain with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen. Soaking your foot in Epsom salts can also provide pain relief and reduce inflammation. Rest your foot and keep it elevated for the first 1-2 days after the procedure. Avoid strenuous activities and sports for the first few weeks to allow proper healing.
Footwear and Hygiene
Wear appropriate footwear that is comfortable and supports healing. Choose soft or open-toed shoes to avoid pressure or friction on the affected toe. Avoid tight-fitting shoes, and keep your feet clean by washing them regularly with soap and water.
Follow-up Care
Schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider or podiatrist to assess the healing process and check for any signs of infection. They can provide further treatment recommendations if needed.
By following these instructions and maintaining proper wound care, you can effectively prevent infection and promote a speedy recovery after toenail removal.
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Home remedies for ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem that usually resolves on its own. It occurs when the edges or corners of a nail grow into the skin next to it, causing tenderness, redness, and even bleeding. While home remedies are pretty convenient and often effective, they aren't the best choice for everyone. If you've been struggling with ingrown toenails frequently, skip the DIY treatments and make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Soak your feet in warm water
Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day until the toe improves. Adding Epsom salts to the water may bring additional relief. This helps to soften the skin, reduce inflammation and ease the pain.
Place cotton or dental floss under your toenail
After each soaking, put fresh bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the ingrown edge. This will help the nail grow above the skin edge.
Apply petroleum jelly
Put petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on the tender area and bandage the toe.
Choose sensible footwear
Consider wearing open-toed shoes or sandals until your toe feels better.
Take pain relievers
A non-prescription pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may help ease the toe pain.
Clip the affected area and apply antibiotic ointment
Using clean nail-cutting tools, try to clip the affected area and apply antibiotic ointment. Applying a petroleum gel or antibiotic ointment with the first sign of pain or redness can help relieve pain and prevent infection.
Massage the affected area
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons suggests massaging the side where your skin meets the nail. This can help reduce inflammation.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for many ailments, including ingrown toenails. It may have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence on using it for ingrown nails is limited. To try this remedy, prepare a basin of warm water combined with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily, then dry thoroughly.
If home remedies do not help, you may need to consult a healthcare provider for further treatment options.
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Ingrown toenail symptoms
Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that usually affects the big toe. They occur when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh. This can happen when the toenail is cut too short or rounded, allowing the skin to fold over the nail and encouraging it to grow into the skin. Wearing tight-fitting shoes can also cause this issue, as the pressure on the skin may cause the nail to pierce it.
Ingrown toenails can become infected, and symptoms of an infected ingrown toenail include:
- Pain
- Inflamed skin
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pus coming from the toe
- Warmth or heat in the toe
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice, especially if you have diabetes or poor blood circulation, as you may be at greater risk of complications.
To prevent ingrown toenails, it is recommended to cut your toenails straight across rather than curving them to match the shape of your toe. Wearing properly fitted shoes that do not place too much pressure on your toes can also help prevent this condition.
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Ingrown toenail causes
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem, with two in ten people seeking medical help for this condition. It occurs when the corner of the toenail grows into the skin. While it usually affects the big toe, it can happen to any toe.
There are several causes of ingrown toenails, including:
Incorrectly Cut Toenails
Cutting toenails too short, curving the nails to match the shape of the toe, or cutting the edges can encourage the skin to fold over the nail, leading to ingrowth. The pressure from shoes on toes with short nails can also direct the nail to grow into the tissue. Therefore, it is recommended to trim toenails straight across and maintain a moderate length.
Improperly Fitting Shoes
Tight-fitting shoes, socks, or tights can place pressure on the skin around the toenail, causing the skin to pierce and the nail to embed itself within it.
Toe Trauma
Injuries such as stubbing your toe or getting stepped on can result in an ingrown toenail.
Toe Shape
The shape of the toe and the surrounding tissue can contribute to ingrown toenails. For example, if the nail is comparatively larger than the toe or if the tissue naturally grows around the nail.
Other Factors
Certain medications and fungal nail infections can also cause ingrown toenails. Additionally, people with diabetes or circulation problems are more prone to developing ingrown toenail infections.
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Frequently asked questions
An ingrown nail is a common foot condition where the nail grows into the toe. It usually affects the big toe, but it can occur on any toe. The nail curls and pierces the skin, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness.
An ingrown nail can get infected when bacteria enter the area where the nail has grown into the skin. Signs of an infection include pain, redness, swelling, and pus. Ingrown nail infections can spread and affect the underlying bones if left untreated.
Ingrown nail removal can help prevent infections by eliminating the nail edge from growing inward and reducing the risk of the nail piercing the skin. However, as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the site of the incision. Proper post-operative care, such as keeping the area clean and dry, can help reduce the risk of infection.
To prevent ingrown nail infections, it is important to practice proper nail care and foot hygiene. Cut your toenails straight across without tapering or rounding the corners. Avoid cutting them too short. Choose comfortable shoes and socks that provide adequate room for your toes. Keep your feet clean and dry, and wash them regularly with soap and water.
