An ingrown toenail forms when the outer edge of a nail grows into the skin next to it. This can cause redness, swelling, and pain. For treatment, a podiatrist might recommend surgery, such as a partial nail removal to get rid of the portion that's digging into the flesh. However, by following some prevention steps, you can avoid dealing with an ingrown toenail in the first place, as well as the need for surgical treatment.

What Should You Do to Avoid Ingrown Toenails?

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes

When you wear shoes that are too tight, your toes can squeeze together. As you walk, this places excess pressure on the nails, which can force them into your skin and prompt them to grow further into the tissue along the edges of your toes. This is a common issue with pointed-toe shoes and boots. Instead of wearing these styles, choose shoes that have rounded or almond-shaped toeboxes, as this allows your toes to move around.

2. Cut Nails Straight Across

When you cut your toenails, don't round the corners. If you do, the skin is directly in the path of the nails when they start to grow. Instead, try cutting the nails straight across, and if you have trouble, invest in a pedicure to help maintain your feet. This ensures the edge of each nail is in line with the tip of each toe. Correct trimming is easier to accomplish when you use a toenail clipper instead of a fingernail clipper, as the wide blade radius has a straight cutting edge to slice through the thick nail plate.

3. Inspect Your Feet

The risk of complications from ingrown toenails is higher for people with diabetes because the disease causes poor blood circulation to extremities. This means that you may have trouble feeling when a nail breaks through the skin, and without prompt attention, an infection could develop. The best way to prevent this problem is with regular inspections, so check your feet several times a day for ingrown toenails. If you spot one, consult your foot doctor promptly.

When you need help keeping your feet healthy, contact St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samual T. Wood-DPM, LLC, in Florissant, MO. Since 1997, the practice has been providing diagnostic services, corrective care, and rehabilitation to residents throughout St. Charles and St. Louis counties. Visit them online for more information about their services. Call (636) 720-0190 to schedule an appointment.