Sophia Delgado
Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that can cause extreme pain and discomfort. They occur when the corner of the toenail grows into the skin, and can be caused by incorrect toenail cutting, ill-fitting shoes, toe trauma, or genetics. Home remedies such as soaking the toe, applying ointment, or using a brace can be effective treatments. However, in more severe cases, a podiatrist may be required to use specialised tools to safely and effectively remove the ingrown toenail. These tools include toenail scissors, hemostats, nail splitters, probes and elevators, and curettes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment | Home remedies include soaking the toe, placing cotton or dental floss under the toenail, applying petroleum jelly, choosing sensible footwear, and taking pain relievers. |
| Professional treatment may involve the use of specialized tools such as toenail scissors, hemostats, nail splitters, probes and elevators, and curettes. | |
| In severe cases, healthcare providers may recommend surgery, such as nail avulsion or matrixectomy, to partially or completely remove the ingrown toenail and prevent recurrence. | |
| Causes | Incorrectly cut toenails, improper footwear, tearing of the nail, toe trauma, and toe shape. |
| Prevention | Trimming toenails straight across and keeping them short, wearing properly fitting shoes, and using ingrown toenail correctors or correction procedures. |
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What You'll Learn
Toenail scissors and clippers
When choosing a pair of toenail scissors, it is important to select a high-quality pair made from stainless steel. This ensures that the scissors are durable and easy to sanitize. Some scissors are designed specifically for thick nails, while others are suitable for both thick and thin nails.
Toenail clippers are also available in various types, including ingrown toenail clippers and standard clippers. Ingrown toenail clippers, such as the Bcabo 10-piece set, are designed to help lift and reshape the nail. They often come with a long, curved blade that allows for precise cutting and smoothing of the nail. Standard toenail clippers can also be used to trim the nails straight across, preventing the nail from becoming ingrown.
In addition to scissors and clippers, other tools can be used to treat ingrown toenails. These include nail splitters, which are purpose-built instruments that split the nail longitudinally without causing pain or damage. Probes and elevators are slender instruments with curved or angled tips used to lift and separate the skin from the ingrown nail, reducing discomfort and inflammation. Curettes are small, scoop-shaped tools used to remove debris or infected tissue from the nail bed.
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Numbing the toe
Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that can cause extreme pain and discomfort. They can limit your ability to engage in physical activities, wear certain types of footwear, or even walk comfortably.
If home remedies have not helped your ingrown toenail, it is important to seek professional help. A podiatrist or healthcare provider will be able to diagnose an ingrown toenail based on your symptoms and a physical examination of the nail and the surrounding skin. They will then be able to recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Before performing any procedure, a professional will first numb the toe. This can be done through a local anesthetic, which will be injected into the toe. Once the toe is numb, the professional can then proceed with the chosen treatment method.
There are several treatment options available for ingrown toenails. One common approach is to lift the nail and place cotton, dental floss, or a splint underneath. This helps to separate the nail from the overlying skin and promote proper nail growth. Another method is to partially remove the nail, trimming or cutting away the ingrown portion. In more severe cases, a matrixectomy may be recommended, which involves removing the problematic nail portion and applying a chemical to prevent regrowth.
It is important to follow the advice of a professional when dealing with ingrown toenails. They will be able to recommend the best treatment plan based on your individual needs and help ensure a safe and effective procedure.
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Lifting the nail
If home remedies such as soaking the toe and applying ointment do not help, a healthcare provider may recommend lifting the nail. This procedure involves carefully lifting the ingrown edge of the nail and placing cotton, dental floss, or a splint underneath. This separates the nail from the skin and promotes growth above the skin edge.
To perform this procedure at home, follow these steps:
- Soak your foot in warm water mixed with Epsom salt or soapy water twice daily, keeping your foot dry at other times.
- Gently lift the edge of the nail with a professional pedicure tool, such as a nail file lifter.
- Place a small piece of cotton, dental floss, or a corrector/straightener strip between the nail and the skin.
- Change the material daily and apply an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.
- Bandage the toe and wear roomy shoes or sandals.
It typically takes 2 to 12 weeks for the nail to grow above the skin edge. Alternatively, a healthcare provider may recommend a partial or complete nail avulsion, where the nail is surgically removed and a chemical is applied to prevent regrowth. This procedure may be suggested for recurring ingrown toenails or severe cases with inflammation, pain, and pus.
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Removing the nail
Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that can cause extreme pain and discomfort. If home remedies have not helped, it is important to seek professional treatment to resolve the issue.
Podiatrists are trained to use specialised tools to safely and effectively remove ingrown toenails. They may use toenail scissors, which have curved blades for precise trimming, or ingrown toenail nippers to manage ingrown toenails. Hemostats, or locking forceps, are also used to grip and hold tissues, providing control and visibility to the podiatrist.
In more severe cases, a podiatrist may use nail splitters, which are purpose-built instruments that split the nail longitudinally without causing pain or damage. This creates a gap that alleviates pressure and allows the nail to grow in the right direction. Probes and elevators are other slender instruments with curved or angled tips that gently lift and separate the skin from the ingrown nail, reducing discomfort and inflammation.
For a complete or partial nail avulsion, a numbing medicine (anesthetic) is injected into the toe before cutting away part or all of the toenail. This procedure can prevent the nail from growing inward and cutting into the skin.
In cases of recurring ingrown toenails, a permanent solution is a matrixectomy, where the doctor removes the problematic portion of the nail and applies a chemical called phenol to burn and kill the cells that form the nail. This prevents that part of the nail from growing back.
After any nail-removal procedure, it is important to care for the toe by taking pain relievers, applying a wet compress, and keeping the toe elevated for 12 to 24 hours. Avoid activities that cause discomfort, and do not swim or use a hot tub until advised by a healthcare provider.
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Preventative measures
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem, affecting around 20% of primary care patients, and they can be very painful. They occur when the toenail grows into the skin beside the nail, usually on the big toe. While ingrown toenails can be treated at home, it is recommended that you seek medical help if the pain is severe, the condition is worsening, or there are signs of infection.
Correct Toenail Trimming Technique
It is important to trim your toenails correctly to prevent ingrown toenails. Trim your nails straight across, avoiding any rounded or pointed shapes. Do not cut your nails too short, and ensure you do not tear or rip your nails. It is also recommended to soak your nails in warm water before cutting them or to cut them after a shower or bath. Make sure to clean your nail trimmer before use.
Appropriate Footwear
Wear shoes that fit correctly. They should not be too loose or too tight, and you should be able to wiggle your toes easily. Avoid footwear that is too tight, as this can cause trauma to the toes and increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
Nail Softeners and Creams
If you have tough skin around the nail or calluses, you can use a nail softener with active ingredients like chamomile-derived bisabolol to alleviate redness and discomfort. This can help prevent nails from growing inward. You can also apply antibiotic or antifungal ointments to the affected area to prevent and treat infections.
Soaking and Drying
Soak your feet in warm water mixed with Epsom salt or mild soapy water twice a day for 10 to 20 minutes. Dry your feet thoroughly with a clean towel afterward to prevent infection.
Bandaging and Protection
After soaking and drying your feet, apply ointment and loosely bandage your toe. You can also use toe protectors, braces, sleeves, or caps to keep your toes safe while they heal.
Medical Advice
If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or any other health concerns, consult a healthcare professional for advice on ingrown toenail prevention and treatment. They may recommend a simple procedure to remove part of the nail and prevent further ingrown toenails.
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Frequently asked questions
The causes of ingrown toenails include wearing tight shoes, stubbing your toe, cutting your nails too short or rounding the corners, and genetics.
Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include redness, swelling, and pain. If the nail grows into your skin, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. Symptoms of an infection include liquid or pus, and redness or darkening of the area.
Home remedies for treating an ingrown toenail include soaking your toenail, placing cotton or dental floss under your toenail, applying petroleum jelly, and taking a nonprescription pain reliever.
If home remedies do not help your ingrown toenail, you should see a healthcare provider or podiatrist. They may recommend lifting the nail and placing cotton or a splint under it, or they may perform a partial nail removal or matrixectomy for more severe cases.
