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Ingrown toenails can be a painful nuisance!  When one or both sides of the nail dig into the skin, the nail may become ingrown.  An ingrown toenail can cause the skin around the nail to appear red, swollen and feel tender to the touch. If left untreated, the pain associated with an ingrown toenail can lead to a person changing the way they walk or move to “protect” their affected toe.  They can even lead to a pesky infection.

What causes ingrown toenails?  

  • Ill-fitting and unsupportive footwear
  • Genetics
  • Exaggerated curved shape of the toenail
  • Hammer toes and bunions
  • Ill-treatment of toenails such as cutting nails too short
  • Fungal infection of the nail
  • Toenail injury

What do ingrown toenails feel and look like? 

  • Pain when wearing closed-toe footwear
  • Pain when walking, running or jumping
  • Redness of the skin around the nail
  • Presence of pus or blood
  • Increased thickness at the sides and ends of the nail
  • Callus build-up at the sides and ends of the nail

What can you do to ease your ingrown toenail pain? 

  • Wash feet daily – use a mild soap with water
  • Avoid ripping nails off – cut toenails straight across and not too short while making sure the sides are visible
  • File nails smooth – make sure the ends and sides of the nails are not rough or jagged
  • Apply vegetable oil – avocado or olive oil can help keep the skin at the side of the nail soft and in good condition
  • Treat suspected infection – minor infections can be treated at home with an antiseptic such as rubbing alcohol, application of an antibiotic cream or ointment and covered with a bandage
  • Ensure your shoes are a good fit – the toe box must be wide and deep enough to accommodate all toes comfortably

If you suspect infection or if your ingrown toenail continues to bother you, it is always best to seek the advice of a professional. BioPed Footcare has Footcare Nurses and Registered Chiropodists who can assess and treat your ingrown toenails safely and effectively.  Ingrown toenail treatment at BioPed is provided based on each individual’s need.  Give us a call today to see how we can help ease your ingrown toenail pain so you can put the Spring back into your step!