Caleb Foster
Ingrown nails are a common issue that can affect both the toenails and fingernails. While ingrown nails usually heal on their own without complications, they can sometimes become infected and require treatment. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments for ingrown nails, providing you with the information you need to address this painful condition effectively. From proper nail trimming techniques to home remedies and medical procedures, we will cover everything you need to know about fixing a nail growing into the skin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Cutting nails too short, incorrect shape, improper footwear, toe trauma, toe shape, nail infection |
| Symptoms | Redness, swelling, soreness, warmth, pus, discolouration, pain |
| Treatment | Soak in warm water, apply antibiotic ointment, use cotton or waxed dental floss, partial nail removal, surgery |
| Prevention | Cut nails straight, wear comfortable shoes, protect feet from trauma, keep feet clean and dry |
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What You'll Learn
Soak the nail in warm water
Soaking the affected area in warm water is a recommended home remedy for treating ingrown nails. Ingrown nails occur when the corner of a toenail grows into the skin. This usually happens on the big toe, but it can affect any toe. It can also occur on the fingernail.
Soaking the nail in warm water is a good first step to fix an ingrown nail. This is especially helpful for mild ingrown nails that are not causing pain or other symptoms. Soak the affected area in warm water two to three times a day for 15 minutes. You can add Epsom salts to the water, although there is no scientific evidence that this improves pain relief or healing. After soaking, dry the area thoroughly.
Once the nail has softened, gently push the skin at the side of the toenail away from the nail. This helps to relieve pressure and pain, separating the nail from the skin slightly.
If the ingrown nail does not improve within a few days, contact your doctor. They may recommend a partial nail avulsion, where a narrow vertical strip of the nail is removed.
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Use dental floss to separate the nail from the skin
Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that usually affects the big toe, but can occur in any toe. It happens when the corner of the toenail curves and grows into the skin. Symptoms include soreness, redness, swelling, and warmth. If the toenail breaks the skin, bacteria may enter and cause an infection.
One home remedy for treating ingrown toenails is to use dental floss to separate the nail from the skin. However, it is important to note that not all medical organisations agree with this method. While it may seem logical to gently lift the edge of the ingrown toenail and insert dental floss between the nail and the skin, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons cautions that this can increase the risk of bacterial growth and infection.
If you choose to use the dental floss method, it is recommended to change the packing daily and to stop if there is a lot of inflammation, swelling, pain, or discharge, as this may indicate an infection. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a physician or foot specialist for treatment.
Instead of using dental floss, some alternative methods to treat ingrown toenails include:
- Soaking the foot in lukewarm water two to three times a day for 15 minutes.
- Massaging the skin at the side of the toenail (the nail fold), gently pushing it away from the nail.
- Wearing sandals or other low-heeled open-toed shoes to reduce pressure on the toe.
- Cutting the toenail straight across, without rounding the corners, to prevent the nail from growing into the skin.
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Cut toenails straight across
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem that can usually be treated at home. They occur when the corner of a toenail grows into the skin, most often affecting the big toe. Cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners can cause ingrown toenails. To prevent this, it is recommended to cut toenails straight across. Here are some detailed steps and guidelines to help you cut your toenails straight across:
- Use the right tools: Always use clean and sharp nail clippers or trimmers specifically designed for toenails. Avoid using fingernail clippers on your toenails, as they are typically smaller and not suitable for trimming toenails effectively.
- Prepare your nails: Before cutting your toenails, soak them in warm water for a few minutes to soften them. This makes the nails easier to trim and helps prevent cracking or breaking. You can do this while taking a bath or shower, or by simply soaking your feet in a basin of warm water.
- Cut technique: When cutting your toenails, avoid tapering or rounding the corners. Instead, cut the nails straight across, following the natural curve of your toe. Ensure that you do not cut the nails too short, especially on the sides of your big toes. The ideal length is to trim the nails so that they are flush with the edge of your toe.
- Nail filing: If you prefer to have rounded corners, use a clean nail file or emery board to gently round the edges of your toenails after cutting them. This helps maintain the straight-across cut while softening any sharp edges.
- Nail maintenance: Keep your toenails clean and well-maintained. Regularly trim your nails to maintain a healthy length and shape. Additionally, maintain good foot hygiene by keeping your feet clean and dry, especially after bathing or engaging in water-related activities.
By following these steps and focusing on cutting your toenails straight across, you can help prevent ingrown toenails and maintain proper foot care. Remember to inspect your nails regularly and seek professional advice if you notice any signs of infection or persistent issues.
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Treat with antibiotics
Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that usually affects the big toe. It occurs when the corner of the toenail curves and grows into the skin. Symptoms include soreness, swelling, redness, and warmth. If the toenail breaks the skin, bacteria may enter and cause an infection.
If you suspect an infection, it is important to seek medical advice. Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to treat the infection. In some cases, they may also recommend removing part or all of the affected toenail. This procedure, known as partial nail avulsion, involves cutting and removing a narrow vertical strip of the nail from the edge to the base.
After the procedure, your doctor may apply a chemical called phenol to the nail matrix to prevent nail regrowth. This can leave the toenail slightly narrower than before. The exposed nail bed will be covered with a non-adherent dressing, and you will be advised to wear open-toed shoes for a few days.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend a minor surgical procedure called the longitudinal band method. This involves disinfecting the ingrown nail and the surrounding area, applying local anesthesia, and using surgical scissors or a knife to remove the ingrown portion of the nail. After the procedure, the toenail is dressed with an antiseptic dressing and a local antibiotic cream.
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions for care after any procedure. Additionally, to prevent ingrown toenails, it is recommended to cut your toenails straight across without tapering the corners and to wear shoes that provide adequate room for your toes.
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Surgery to remove the nail
Surgery is an effective way to treat ingrown toenails and prevent them from growing inward. The procedure, called a nail avulsion, involves removing some or all of the nail plate (the hard part of the nail). It can also be used to remove the skin below the nail plate.
Partial nail removal
For partial nail removal, a local anaesthetic is injected into the toe. Then, a small piece of the nail is removed from the affected side, and treated to prevent the nail from growing back. The rest of the toenail should grow as normal.
Total nail removal
Total nail removal is where the whole nail is removed and treated so that it does not grow back. A tourniquet (tight elastic band) is put onto the toe to stop any bleeding during the procedure. A chemical called phenol is applied to the nail bed to prevent regrowth.
Aftercare
It is important to follow the advice given to avoid infection, as you will have an open wound for some weeks. Signs of infection include heat, swelling, and pain. You should contact your doctor if these occur. Keep the dressing on, clean, and dry until your redressing appointment, which is normally between 3 to 7 days after surgery.
It takes about one year for a toenail to regrow. The new nail often looks normal.
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Frequently asked questions
An ingrown nail occurs when a nail grows into the sides or corners of your skin. It can affect both finger and toenails, but usually develops on the big toe. Symptoms include soreness, swelling, redness, and warmth.
You can soak the affected area in warm water and apply an antibiotic ointment. You can also try to gently lift the nail and insert a small piece of cotton or waxed dental floss between the nail and your skin. Change the cotton or floss daily.
If you have diabetes, neuropathy, or circulation problems, you should not attempt to treat an ingrown nail at home and should see a doctor instead. You should also see a doctor if you suspect an infection, if the nail is causing you a lot of pain, or if home treatments are not working.
