Ingrown Toenails: Dos and Don'ts for Proper Care
Ingrown toenails are a common and painful foot condition that can make everyday activities uncomfortable. At Feet Treat, based in Gilmerton, Edinburgh, we specialise in professional foot health care, including the effective treatment of ingrown toenails. Whether you visit us at our clinic or opt for a home visit, we’re here to help you get back on your feet.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can be caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or trauma to the toe. Sometimes there is no apparent cause and ingrown toenails can develop Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes infection. Left untreated, the condition can worsen and lead to severe discomfort.
Dos and Don’ts for Ingrown Toenail Care
Proper care is essential to manage an ingrown toenail and avoid complications. Here are some helpful tips:
Dos:
Soak Your Foot: Regularly soak your foot in warm, salty water to soften the skin, reduce swelling, and minimise the risk of infection.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose footwear with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the affected toe.
Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Maintaining good hygiene can prevent bacteria from worsening the condition.
Don'ts:
Avoid Cutting the Nail Too Short: Trimming nails incorrectly can aggravate the problem. Always cut nails straight across rather than rounding the edges.
Refrain From Picking or Digging: Attempting to fix the issue yourself may lead to infection or further damage.
Skip Tight Shoes: Avoid wearing shoes that compress the toes, as this can exacerbate the pain and prevent healing.
When to Seek Professional Help
If the pain persists or signs of infection develop—such as increased redness, swelling, or pus—it’s time to consult a professional. At Feet Treat, we offer specialised care for ingrown toenails, providing tailored treatments to alleviate discomfort and restore foot health.
Our experienced practitioners use safe and effective methods to treat ingrown toenails, ensuring a comfortable experience. We also offer guidance on preventing future issues, so you can maintain healthy feet long after your visit.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Prevention is always better than cure. To avoid ingrown toenails:
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Trim nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
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Choose well-fitted shoes that provide adequate room for your toes.
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Keep feet clean and dry, especially after exercising.
Why Choose Feet Treat?
Feet Treat, based in Gilmerton, is your trusted local foot health clinic. We pride ourselves on offering comprehensive care, whether at our welcoming clinic or through our convenient domiciliary visits across Edinburgh. Our personalised approach ensures that every client receives the attention and treatment they deserve.
Don’t let an ingrown toenail hold you back from living life to the fullest. Book your appointment today and let our professional team help you take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet.
Feet Treat