How to Avoid an Ingrown Toe Nail

Ingrown toenails can be very painful. Most ingrown toenails are caused by improper nail trimming, but sometimes an injury to the nail such as a stumped toe or inherited characteristics can cause the nail to cut more deeply into the flesh at the corner of the toe. No matter the cause, ingrown toenails can be avoided or cured with proper treatment or minor surgery.

Things You'll Need

• Good nail clippers
• Topical ointment to prevent infection
• Properly fitting shoes and socks

Instructions

1. Trim toenails in a straight line and avoid cutting them too short. Cutting toenails too short can cause them to grow deeper into the skin at the corner of the toe.

2. Avoid shoes that are too short or tight on the toes. Shoes that are too big can also cause problems by putting pressure on the toes when walking or running.

3. Avoid trimming toenails too often as this can make ingrown toenails worse.

4. Keep feet clean to prevent infection in ingrown toenails.

5. Apply topical medications to reduce the pain and prevent infection. These medications may help but they will not cure or prevent ingrown toe nails.

6. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for removal of the corner of the nail. The doctor can provide permanent relief from ingrown toenails, but attempting to perform "minor surgery" on the nail yourself is not recommended.