How can you treat an ingrown toenail at home. What are the most effective remedies for ingrown toenail pain and swelling. When should you seek medical attention for an ingrown toenail. What are the best ways to prevent ingrown toenails from occurring.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Causes and Symptoms

Ingrown toenails are a common foot ailment that affects approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives. This condition occurs when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. The big toe is most frequently affected, but any toe can develop an ingrown nail.

Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails:

• Toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Improper toenail trimming techniques
• Poor foot hygiene
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

Recognizing the symptoms of an ingrown toenail is crucial for early intervention. Common signs include:

• Pain and tenderness along the edge of the toenail
• Redness and swelling of the affected area
• Warmth in the toe
• Possible pus or drainage if infected

Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenail Relief

For mild cases of ingrown toenails, several home remedies can provide relief and promote healing. These methods are often effective and can be easily implemented at home.

1. Warm Water Soaks

Soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water is a simple yet effective remedy. How long should you soak your foot? Aim for up to 20 minutes at a time, using a gentle soap like Castile. Adding Epsom salts to the water may offer additional relief by reducing inflammation and soothing the skin.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Soak

While scientific evidence is limited, apple cider vinegar is a popular folk remedy believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. To try this method, add 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar to a basin of warm water and soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. Remember to thoroughly dry your foot after soaking to prevent fungal growth.

3. Over-the-Counter Antiseptic Ointments

Applying an over-the-counter antiseptic ointment or cream can help promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. Which ointments are most effective for ingrown toenails? Consider using products containing:

• Neomycin (Neosporin)
• Bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• Mupirocin (Bactroban)

Apply the ointment to the affected area up to three times daily, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Always bandage the toenail after application to keep the area clean and protected.

Proper Footwear and Nail Care for Prevention

Prevention is key when it comes to ingrown toenails. Adopting proper footwear habits and nail care techniques can significantly reduce your risk of developing this painful condition.

Choosing the Right Shoes

Ill-fitting shoes are a leading cause of ingrown toenails. How can you ensure your shoes fit properly? Look for footwear that:

• Provides ample space in the toe box
• Doesn’t compress or crowd your toes
• Allows your feet to breathe
• Fits comfortably without being too tight or loose

During the healing process, opt for open-toed shoes or sandals when possible to minimize pressure on the affected toenail.

Proper Nail Trimming Techniques

Incorrect toenail trimming is another common cause of ingrown nails. To prevent this issue, follow these guidelines:

• Cut toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges
• Don’t cut nails too short – leave them slightly longer than the tip of your toes
• Use proper nail clippers or scissors designed for toenails
• Trim nails when they’re dry, not wet, to prevent splitting

Pain Management and Protective Measures

Managing pain and protecting the affected toe are crucial aspects of ingrown toenail treatment. Several over-the-counter options and protective devices can provide relief and support healing.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) are effective options for managing ingrown toenail pain. Which is better for ingrown toenail discomfort? If swelling is present, ibuprofen may be more beneficial as it addresses both pain and inflammation. Follow these guidelines:

• Acetaminophen: Take up to 2 325mg tablets every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 10 tablets in 24 hours
• Ibuprofen: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 200-400mg every 4-6 hours as needed

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication regimen, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Toe Protectors and Braces

Toe protectors and braces can provide a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails, reducing pain and promoting proper nail growth. These devices come in various forms:

• Toe rings that fit around the affected area
• Full toe covers
• Thin composite braces that hold the toe in place

Some brands, like Dr. Scholl’s, offer toe protectors with medicated gel to soften toenails for easier trimming. Use these products as directed until the ingrown toenail resolves.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many ingrown toenails can be successfully treated at home, some cases require professional medical intervention. It’s important to recognize when to seek help from a healthcare provider.

Consider consulting a doctor if you experience:

• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus drainage
• No improvement after a week of home treatment
• Recurring ingrown toenails
• Underlying medical conditions that may complicate healing, such as diabetes or poor circulation

A healthcare professional can provide additional treatment options, including:

• Partial nail removal
• Complete nail removal
• Prescription oral antibiotics for severe infections
• Chemical or laser treatments to prevent nail regrowth

Lifestyle Factors and Ingrown Toenail Prevention

Adopting certain lifestyle habits can significantly reduce your risk of developing ingrown toenails. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can maintain healthy toes and prevent the discomfort associated with this condition.

Maintaining Proper Foot Hygiene

Good foot hygiene is essential for preventing ingrown toenails and other foot-related issues. Follow these tips to keep your feet clean and healthy:

• Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying special attention to the areas between your toes
• Dry your feet thoroughly after washing or swimming
• Change your socks daily, or more frequently if your feet tend to sweat excessively
• Use antifungal powder or spray if you’re prone to athlete’s foot or excessive sweating

Managing Excessive Sweating

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails by softening the skin around the nails. To manage this condition:

• Use antiperspirant products specifically designed for feet
• Wear moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry
• Alternate between different pairs of shoes to allow them to dry completely between uses
• Consider using absorbent insoles to reduce moisture in your shoes

Protecting Your Toes During Activities

Certain activities can increase your risk of toenail trauma, which may lead to ingrown nails. Take these precautions to protect your toes:

• Wear protective footwear during sports or activities that may impact your toes
• Use steel-toed boots if you work in an environment with heavy objects that could fall on your feet
• Be mindful of your surroundings to avoid stubbing your toes

Understanding the Role of Genetics and Anatomical Factors

While many cases of ingrown toenails are related to external factors, it’s important to recognize that some individuals may be more predisposed to this condition due to genetic or anatomical reasons.

Genetic Predisposition

Some people may inherit nail characteristics that make them more susceptible to ingrown toenails. These may include:

• Naturally curved toenails
• Unusually large nail folds (the skin surrounding the nail)
• Nails that grow more quickly on one side

If you have a family history of ingrown toenails, you may need to be more vigilant about prevention strategies.

Anatomical Considerations

Certain foot structures can increase the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails. These include:

• Excessively curved toes
• Toe deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes
• Unusually shaped toenails

If you have any of these anatomical factors, consider consulting with a podiatrist for personalized advice on preventing ingrown toenails.

Long-Term Management and Prevention Strategies

Developing a comprehensive approach to long-term management and prevention is crucial for individuals who are prone to ingrown toenails. By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Regular Foot Checks

Performing regular self-examinations of your feet can help you catch potential issues early. How often should you check your feet? Aim for a weekly inspection, paying close attention to:

• The shape and condition of your toenails
• Any signs of redness or swelling around the nails
• Changes in nail color or texture
• Any pain or discomfort when touching the nail or surrounding skin

Professional Foot Care

For some individuals, particularly those with underlying health conditions or recurring ingrown toenails, regular professional foot care may be beneficial. Consider these options:

• Schedule periodic visits with a podiatrist for nail trimming and assessment
• Seek professional pedicures from licensed nail technicians trained in proper foot care
• Consult with a podiatrist about custom orthotics if you have foot structure issues contributing to ingrown toenails

Nutritional Support for Nail Health

While diet alone cannot prevent ingrown toenails, maintaining overall nail health through proper nutrition can support stronger, more resilient nails. Include these nutrients in your diet:

• Biotin: Found in eggs, nuts, and whole grains
• Protein: Essential for nail structure, found in lean meats, fish, and legumes
• Zinc: Supports nail growth, found in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds
• Omega-3 fatty acids: May help reduce inflammation, found in fatty fish and flaxseeds

By implementing these long-term strategies and remaining vigilant about foot health, you can minimize the risk of ingrown toenails and enjoy healthier, more comfortable feet. Remember that consistent care and attention to your feet are key to preventing this common but often painful condition.

10 Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails cause pain, redness, and swelling. Home remedies and medical treatments can help relieve symptoms and prevent future infections.

Ingrown toenails are a common problem, especially for people who wear shoes that are too tight or don’t allow their feet to breathe.

Around 20 percent of people experience an ingrown toenail at some point in their lives. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail can include pain and swelling of the toe. Sometimes, the nail may become infected.

There are many treatments for ingrown toenails, ranging from home remedies to surgery. In most cases, you can treat an ingrown toenail at home with over-the-counter medication or home remedies. However, if the nail is infected or causing severe pain, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.

An ingrown toenail happens when the corner or edge of your toenail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. This may cause pain, redness, and swelling. The condition is very common in both men and women. Your big toe is most likely to be affected.

Common causes of ingrown toenails are:

• toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• wearing shoes that are too tight
• cutting toenails too short
• cutting toenails at an angle
• poor foot hygiene
• excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

To prevent infection, it’s important to treat ingrown toenails as soon as they occur. Mild cases may require minor treatment with home remedies. Serious cases may need surgical intervention.

The following treatments can help relieve pain and promote the healing of an ingrown toenail.

Soaking the affected foot may help reduce swelling and ease the pain. You can soak your foot in warm, soapy water for up to 20 minutes at a time. Castile soap is a good option. Adding Epsom salts to the water may bring additional relief.

Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for almost everything these days, including ingrown toenails. It’s believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence is limited.

To try this remedy, prepare a basin of warm water combined with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. Dry your foot thoroughly after soaking.

Some experts recommend tucking small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the edge of an ingrown toenail to encourage proper nail growth. Not every medical group agrees.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, placing cotton under your nail may increase pain and allow harmful bacteria to thrive. Soaking the cotton or floss in alcohol before application may help reduce this risk.

Using over-the-counter antiseptic ointment or cream can promote healing and help reduce the risk of infection. Apply the ointment to the affected toenail following the manufacturer’s instructions, usually up to three times daily.

These ointments can include:

• neomycin (Neosporin)
• bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• mupirocin (Bactroban)

Be sure to bandage the toenail after application.

Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes. Improper footwear is a leading cause of ingrown toenails. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from developing or worsening, wear shoes and socks or hosiery that fit but still leave ample space in the toe bed. During the healing process, avoid shoes or wear sandals as much as possible to limit pressure on your toenails.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve ingrown toenail pain. Side effects are unusual unless you take more than the daily recommended amount of 2 325 milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 10 tablets in 24 hours and don’t take it with alcohol.

If swelling is present, ibuprofen (Advil) may be a better option because it relieves both pain and swelling. Some common side effects of ibuprofen include abdominal pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

Take all over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by the manufacturer or a doctor.

A toe protector provides a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails. Toe protectors are available as rings that fit around the affected area or as a covering for the entire toe. Some brands of toe protectors, such as Dr. Scholl’s, come with a medicated gel to help soften toenails for easy trimming. Use the treatment as directed until the ingrown toenail is gone.

Toe braces are thin composite devices that hold the toe in place and shield the skin from as a new nail grows back. They help treat and prevent ingrown toenails. You can find toe braces online and in some pharmacies.

Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics for a severe ingrown toenail infection that doesn’t respond to other remedies and treatments. Oral antibiotics help reduce pain and swelling while also fighting infection.

Some signs of infection may include:

• increased redness
• throbbing pain
• increased swelling
• pus
• warmth in the affected toe and its surrounding area
• foul odor

Some antibiotics used to treat infected ingrown toenails are ampicillin (Omnipen), amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag), and vancomycin (Vancocin).

If an ingrown toenail doesn’t improve with home remedies, partial or full removal of the nail may be necessary. Using a local anesthetic, a doctor may remove part of the nail’s border, the underlying nail bed, or part of the middle growth plate.

In severe, recurring cases, the doctor may recommend removing the entire ingrown nail. This is the last resort and a potentially painful solution that may increase your risk of infection. It also increases the risk of a misshapen toenail as it grows back.

Minor foot problems like ingrown toenails may cause serious complications in some people. See the doctor if you have an ingrown toenail and you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, or you have a compromised immune system.

You should also see a doctor if:

• pain and swelling are severe
• home remedies don’t improve the condition
• you have an allergic skin reaction to a home remedy
• you have questions about how to care for an ingrown toenail

Most ingrown toenails aren’t serious. They should improve within a week or so without causing permanent damage with the proper home care. Left untreated, ingrown toenails may cause severe pain and infection that could spread to deeper layers of skin.

It’s common for ingrown toenails to recur, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent them.

Prevention tips

• Move around carefully to avoid toenail trauma.
• Trim your toenails straight across, no shorter than the tip of your toe.
• If your job increases your risk of toenail injury, wear protective footgear.

Was this helpful?

Ingrown toenails can be painful, but they’re usually easy to treat at home. Wearing proper-fitting shoes, trimming your nails straight across, and soaking your feet can help prevent ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails usually heal without causing permanent damage. But, sometimes, they can lead to serious complications. See your doctor if you have an underlying condition that puts you at risk for complications, such as diabetes.

10 Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails cause pain, redness, and swelling. Home remedies and medical treatments can help relieve symptoms and prevent future infections.

Ingrown toenails are a common problem, especially for people who wear shoes that are too tight or don’t allow their feet to breathe.

Around 20 percent of people experience an ingrown toenail at some point in their lives. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail can include pain and swelling of the toe. Sometimes, the nail may become infected.

There are many treatments for ingrown toenails, ranging from home remedies to surgery. In most cases, you can treat an ingrown toenail at home with over-the-counter medication or home remedies. However, if the nail is infected or causing severe pain, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.

An ingrown toenail happens when the corner or edge of your toenail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. This may cause pain, redness, and swelling. The condition is very common in both men and women. Your big toe is most likely to be affected.

Common causes of ingrown toenails are:

• toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• wearing shoes that are too tight
• cutting toenails too short
• cutting toenails at an angle
• poor foot hygiene
• excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

To prevent infection, it’s important to treat ingrown toenails as soon as they occur. Mild cases may require minor treatment with home remedies. Serious cases may need surgical intervention.

The following treatments can help relieve pain and promote the healing of an ingrown toenail.

Soaking the affected foot may help reduce swelling and ease the pain. You can soak your foot in warm, soapy water for up to 20 minutes at a time. Castile soap is a good option. Adding Epsom salts to the water may bring additional relief.

Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for almost everything these days, including ingrown toenails. It’s believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence is limited.

To try this remedy, prepare a basin of warm water combined with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. Dry your foot thoroughly after soaking.

Some experts recommend tucking small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the edge of an ingrown toenail to encourage proper nail growth. Not every medical group agrees.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, placing cotton under your nail may increase pain and allow harmful bacteria to thrive. Soaking the cotton or floss in alcohol before application may help reduce this risk.

Using over-the-counter antiseptic ointment or cream can promote healing and help reduce the risk of infection. Apply the ointment to the affected toenail following the manufacturer’s instructions, usually up to three times daily.

These ointments can include:

• neomycin (Neosporin)
• bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• mupirocin (Bactroban)

Be sure to bandage the toenail after application.

Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes. Improper footwear is a leading cause of ingrown toenails. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from developing or worsening, wear shoes and socks or hosiery that fit but still leave ample space in the toe bed. During the healing process, avoid shoes or wear sandals as much as possible to limit pressure on your toenails.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve ingrown toenail pain. Side effects are unusual unless you take more than the daily recommended amount of 2 325 milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 10 tablets in 24 hours and don’t take it with alcohol.

If swelling is present, ibuprofen (Advil) may be a better option because it relieves both pain and swelling. Some common side effects of ibuprofen include abdominal pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

Take all over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by the manufacturer or a doctor.

A toe protector provides a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails. Toe protectors are available as rings that fit around the affected area or as a covering for the entire toe. Some brands of toe protectors, such as Dr. Scholl’s, come with a medicated gel to help soften toenails for easy trimming. Use the treatment as directed until the ingrown toenail is gone.

Toe braces are thin composite devices that hold the toe in place and shield the skin from as a new nail grows back. They help treat and prevent ingrown toenails. You can find toe braces online and in some pharmacies.

Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics for a severe ingrown toenail infection that doesn’t respond to other remedies and treatments. Oral antibiotics help reduce pain and swelling while also fighting infection.

Some signs of infection may include:

• increased redness
• throbbing pain
• increased swelling
• pus
• warmth in the affected toe and its surrounding area
• foul odor

Some antibiotics used to treat infected ingrown toenails are ampicillin (Omnipen), amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag), and vancomycin (Vancocin).

If an ingrown toenail doesn’t improve with home remedies, partial or full removal of the nail may be necessary. Using a local anesthetic, a doctor may remove part of the nail’s border, the underlying nail bed, or part of the middle growth plate.

In severe, recurring cases, the doctor may recommend removing the entire ingrown nail. This is the last resort and a potentially painful solution that may increase your risk of infection. It also increases the risk of a misshapen toenail as it grows back.

Minor foot problems like ingrown toenails may cause serious complications in some people. See the doctor if you have an ingrown toenail and you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, or you have a compromised immune system.

You should also see a doctor if:

• pain and swelling are severe
• home remedies don’t improve the condition
• you have an allergic skin reaction to a home remedy
• you have questions about how to care for an ingrown toenail

Most ingrown toenails aren’t serious. They should improve within a week or so without causing permanent damage with the proper home care. Left untreated, ingrown toenails may cause severe pain and infection that could spread to deeper layers of skin.

It’s common for ingrown toenails to recur, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent them.

Prevention tips

• Move around carefully to avoid toenail trauma.
• Trim your toenails straight across, no shorter than the tip of your toe.
• If your job increases your risk of toenail injury, wear protective footgear.

Was this helpful?

Ingrown toenails can be painful, but they’re usually easy to treat at home. Wearing proper-fitting shoes, trimming your nails straight across, and soaking your feet can help prevent ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails usually heal without causing permanent damage. But, sometimes, they can lead to serious complications. See your doctor if you have an underlying condition that puts you at risk for complications, such as diabetes.

What to do if the nail is ingrown

Likbez

Health

May 11, 2018

Incorrect treatment can lead to amputation.

An ingrown toenail is hard to miss. Pain, redness, fluid blisters, and the shape of the nail itself signal a problem.

The big toe is the most common cause of ingrown toenails. But in general, you may not be lucky with any finger.

Why nails grow in

1. Foot biomechanics. Most often, flat feet and how wrong we walk are to blame.
2. Uncomfortable shoes. If something is tight, if something is preventing the nails from growing properly, they will start looking for workarounds.
3. Constantly sweaty feet. As a rule, the matter is in poor-quality materials from which shoes, socks or tights are made.
4. Trauma. Sometimes, if you trip hard or drop something on your nail, you can disrupt the natural direction of growth.
5. Improper nail care. If you cut your nails too much and often, forget about the nail file and generally score on elementary manicure and pedicure, then the risk of getting an ingrown nail increases.
6. Fungus. With fungal diseases, the nails are generally deformed, so they can grow in.
7. Diabetes. Diabetic foot is a special term, because due to blood sugar problems, oddly enough, the legs suffer.

How dangerous is an ingrown toenail

It hurts to walk with it, it is difficult to find shoes with it, even sneakers. However, an ingrown toenail hurts even if you don’t wear shoes at all.

But this is not the worst. Since the nail constantly presses on the skin, a wound is formed into which any microbe can enter. If this happens, inflammation or suppuration will begin. Antibiotics will have to be used to clear the infection. In particularly difficult cases, an ordinary ingrown nail can lead to amputation.

How to treat an ingrown toenail

It is impossible to endure and wait for everything to pass. If the nail began to grow, it must be treated.

For starters, it would be nice to visit:

1. Orthopedist. He will tell you if you have flat feet or other conditions and will treat them.
2. Podiatrist – a specialist in diseases of the foot, who will deal directly with the ingrown toenail.

Olga Aleinikova

podologist, manicure and pedicure master

The point is that the ingrown nail captures the surrounding tissues. And they need to be separated from this nail. Surgeons remove nails, but do not work with the tissues and biomechanics of the foot.

According to Olga Aleinikova, there are ways to avoid surgery. This is tamponing (a special material that is placed between the nail and tissue), properly selected orthopedic shoes or at least insoles, braces and titanium plates.

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Nail plates

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Ingrown toenail staples

These plates and staples are somewhat similar to dental braces. The glands are glued to the top of the nail so that as they grow, they lift its sides and prevent them from growing in. How long you have to wear such plates is an individual question and depends on many factors.

If the inflammation has already begun and you need to go to a specialist, place a cotton swab with antibiotic ointment between the nail and the skin to eliminate the inflammation. You can wash the places of suppuration with hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine.

Do I need to cut a nail from a surgeon

When nothing helps, there is only one way – surgery. That is, the nail is cut to the place where it already lies straight. It can be very painful, after the operation you will have to wait a long time for the new nail to grow as it should, and no one can guarantee that the ingrown nail will not repeat itself. In very advanced cases, the nail is removed completely.

Therefore, it is better not to bring to a state where you need to destroy half of the nail plate, and at the first changes go to an orthopedist or podologist. At a minimum, visit a good pedicure salon where a podiatrist takes.

How to prevent an ingrown nail

In most cases, it is enough:

1. Follow the shape of the foot and correct flat feet with shoes.
2. Keep nails clean.
3. Cut them in time.
4. Leave 1-2 mm of overgrown nail when trimmed.
5. Do not cut corners of thumb nails.
6. Trim nails to their natural shape (legs usually need to be cut straight, but there are exceptions).
7. Treat fungal diseases.
8. Wear only comfortable shoes.
9. If there are signs of ingrowth, see an orthopedist or podiatrist instead of trying to solve it yourself.

Read also

• How to stop biting your nails once and for all: 8 proven methods
  

  What to do with an ingrown toenail?

  What a trifle – an ingrown toenail! Only someone who has never encountered this problem says so. And the people who live with her know how difficult it is to find beautiful and comfortable shoes, and with what hellish pain, at times, each step is given.

  If you look, then the cases when the nail plate grows into the soft tissues of the toes are not so rare. According to statistics, every tenth person comes to specialists all over the world with this pathology! Most of them are teenagers and children.

  – It should be clear to every parent that if a child complains of pain when walking, if there are redness and other signs of inflammation on his toes, then he should consult a doctor, – says the traumatologist-orthopedist of the medical clinic “Children’s Doctor” Melnik Ilya Leonidovich. – The fact is that an ingrown nail not only causes discomfort, but also threatens to attach an infection. A purulent process can develop, which can penetrate not only into soft tissues, but also into the bone. And the child’s body is not always able to cope with this situation, and the infection spreads throughout the body in a short time. It is very important to conduct competent therapy in time to avoid such serious consequences.

  Why me?

  What is the reason that an ingrown nail worries some and never occurs in others? An important role in this matter is played by hereditary predisposition, which is determined by the size and shape of the fingers, the width of the nail plate, and so on. At birth, we do not choose these parameters, and then how “lucky” anyone is. But even if nature has endowed you with excellent data, this does not mean that an ingrown nail does not threaten you. Alas, we ourselves make ridiculous mistakes, because of which we suffer later.

  – Unfortunately, many parents do not even perceive an ingrown nail as a threat, – continues Ilya Leonidovich. – Therefore, they are rather careless about the care of the nail plate, the selection of comfortable children’s shoes and the prevention of flat feet. But all these factors can provoke a problem that can actually happen to anyone! Therefore, it is better to make it a habit to follow simple rules than to suffer later with an ingrown toenail.

  It is impossible to treat with surgery…

  Aloe leaves, potassium permanganate solution, onion peel, black bread crumb …. What our people do not apply to a sore spot in the hope of getting at least the slightest relief! But all these “grandmother’s” means only contribute to the reproduction of the infection, and instead of treatment, parents get the opposite effect.

  – It is possible and even necessary to provide first aid to a child on your own, only this should be done correctly, – explains the orthopedic surgeon Melnik Ilya Leonidovich. – Heat baths with 10% saline solution relieve inflammation very well. But this does not cancel a visit to a pediatric surgeon! However, before turning to the doctor, many still try to “treat” in beauty salons, where special brackets like braces are placed on the nail plates. But this method is not suitable for children! Until the age of 14, they are actively growing, and metal brackets can only aggravate the situation, as they deform the nail. So it turns out: when a patient “reaches” us, we can only help him surgically. And in the early stages, it would be possible to do without surgery.

  Ingrown toenail prevention:

  • Maintain good hygiene. Wash your feet regularly and wear clean socks.
  • Cut your nails neatly and correctly! You need to cut the plate in a straight line, while not rounding the edges, but not leaving sharp corners on it.