Ingrown toenails can be deceptively disruptive. They seem negligible at first, causing just slight redness and tenderness where they are. As they grow deeper into the skin, they become much more than a nuisance, causing foot problems that make every stride an ordeal and wearing shoes a punishment.
Fortunately, ingrown toenails are largely preventable. Ensuring proper foot care, making smart footwear choices, and being mindful of your habits are key. Below, we share a few expert-backed tips for tackling the root causes of ingrown toenails—helping you grow ones that are pain-free and trouble-free.
Clip With Care
Your toenail trimming technique matters more than you might think. It may seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in how your toenails grow.
Avoid cutting your toenails into curves. Rounding the edges might seem like the natural thing to do, but it can encourage your nail to grow into your skin. Instead, do it straight across. You want to leave a slight corner visible on each side, as this guides your nail to grow out over your skin, not into it.
In addition, refrain from cutting your nails too short. When toenails are trimmed aggressively, they can curl inward as they grow.
For a more precise trim, opt for sharp toenail clippers. Specifically designed to handle the thickness and natural shape of toenails, they make trimming easier and are less likely to cause damage.
Say No to Ill-Fitting Shoes
Shoes that are too tight, too narrow, or too pointed can squeeze or put excessive pressure on your toes, essentially forcing your nails to grow inward.
When buying shoes, get those that have a roomy toe box to give your toes enough space to wiggle and splay. It is also a good idea to go in the afternoon or evening, as the feet tend to gradually expand as the day goes on. This helps ensure you get a pair that will still feel comfortable when your feet are at their largest.
Protect Your Toes From Trauma
Stubbing your toe or dropping something on your foot can seem remotely connected to ingrown toenails. But trauma, especially when it happens repeatedly, can set off a cascade of problems that can ultimately alter the growth direction of your toenails.
To protect your toenails from trauma, trim them regularly and wear properly fitting shoes appropriate for your activity. If you work in a high-risk environment like a construction site, warehouse, or any place where heavy objects are handled, using protective footwear like steel-toe boots is essential. They are made to absorb impact and prevent direct trauma to your toes.
Moisturize Your Feet (But Not Too Much)
The condition of the skin around your toenails can influence how they grow. When the surrounding skin is dry, your toenail can become rigid and more likely to dig inward instead of growing straight out.
To prevent this, moisturize your feet regularly with a lightweight, non-greasy formula. But be careful not to slather it. Applying too much, especially between your toes, creates an environment conducive to fungal growth. Focus on the top and soles of your feet and apply sparingly on areas prone to moisture buildup.
Know When to Seek Help
If you notice redness, swelling, or pain around your toenail, do not wait for it to become unbearable. Early intervention can prevent a minor issue from escalating into one that potentially requires extensive or invasive treatment.
If you have diabetes, poor circulation in your feet, or any condition that weakens your immune system, do not attempt to treat your ingrown toenail on your own. See a foot specialist at the first sign, as complications can develop quickly in these cases.
Doctors for Foot Problems in Warwick and Middletown, RI
Foot care does not have to be complicated, but it does require some attention to detail. This is especially true when it comes to preventing painful conditions like ingrown toenails. Trim your nails correctly, choose proper footwear, practice good hygiene, avoid bad habits, and seek help when needed. With these practical tips, you can protect your feet from avoidable problems.
For expert care for ingrown toenails in the Warwick or Middletown, RI area, visit one of our board-certified and fellowship-trained podiatrists here at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England.
We will work with you to create a treatment plan that will quickly eliminate your discomfort, resolve the infection, and promote healthy nail growth, so you can walk, run, or do what you love confidently again.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our providers, contact our office near you or fill out our secure appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
