Reducing the Impact of Ingrown Toenails through Home-Based Care Treatments

Some people prefer wearing sharply pointed shoes, which can overcrowd their toenails. Others love cutting their nails too short. They do not understand that such practices increase their risk for ingrown toenails. If this describes you, it would be best to see a foot specialist for ingrown toenail in Bakersfield to determine if you have already developed an issue. However, if your ingrown toenail does not need specialized care, a Diabetic & Wound Center foot specialist can show you how to treat it while at home. Here is a sneak peek of how foot care remedies for ingrown toenails work.

How to care for an ingrown toenail at home

If you have an ingrown toenail that is not severe, use these home remedies to manage your pain:

1. Soak your feet in warm, salty, and soapy water

Smoking your feet in warm water helps reduce the swelling and relieve your pain. You can add Epsom salt and mild soap to the water. Repeat this at least three times a day.

2. Use antibiotic ointment

Less severe ingrown toenails can improve through over-the-counter antibiotic ointment or cream. If you are not sure about the type of ointment to buy, ask your doctor to provide you with a list. When applying, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions or ask your doctor for advice.

3. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight

Tight shoes are not only uncomfortable to wear, but they also increase your risk for severe ingrown toenails. If you want your condition to improve, change your shoes. Go for ones that allow your toes some free space, preferably round-tipped shoes. If you are indoors, wear open shoes or sandals to prevent pressure on your toenails.

4. Invest in a toe protector

Some people have naturally overcrowded toes. The only option they have at protecting their toenails is to use a protector. Some protectors come in the form of rights that cover the affected area. Others are designed to cover the whole toe. If it comes with a medicated gel, that’s an added bonus.

5. Take pain relievers under your doctor’s supervision

Pain relievers can help relieve you from ingrown toenail pain, but only when you take them correctly. Please do not exceed the recommended dose or take them with alcohol. If your pain does not improve after taking a pain reliever, see your doctor for further advice.

6. Consult your foot doctor before trying out oral medications

A severe ingrown toenail may come with abscess, fungal infection, redness, bleeding, and even swelling. When it gets to this point, home-based care might not work. Your only option is to seek professional foot care. A podiatrist can clean or surgically remove severe ingrown toenails to protect the neighboring nails. The latter only comes as a last resort in preventing you from having recurring ingrown toenails.

Home-based care for ingrown toenails may work for a week or two, but if your condition does not improve, seeing a podiatrist for specialized care will be beneficial. To learn more about ingrown toenail facts and treatment options, schedule a visit to your podiatrist today.