Do you get ingrown toenails? Are you plagued by frequent pain and occasional infection due to something as small and seemingly innocent as a toe? Here at Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic, we see patients with ingrown toenails all the time, so you are far from alone in suffering from this condition! We have come up with a few tips that can help you identify what might be causing your ingrown toenails and how you can prevent them from reoccurring.
First, look at your footwear. Some people have naturally wider feet that aren’t properly accommodated by certain types of footwear. If you put your feet in your shoes, you should be able to spread your toes and wiggle them. If you can’t do this, you should look into shoes with wider toe boxes.
Second, look at your toes. Many people are just genetically prone to growing their toenails in such a way that they will grow into the surrounding toe bed. No matter what your genetics, however, when caring for your feet, do not under any circumstances curve your toenails when you cut them. Your toenails should be cut straight across and kept at a length that shows a fair amount of white.
Finally, check your feet often, especially if you are a diabetic. Diabetics often have problems with their feet, since diabetes affects the nerves and feeling in the feet, which can lead to serious issues with infections. Wear compression hose, proper footwear, and perform regular foot checks if you are a diabetic.