An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of a toenail grows into the soft flesh of the toe, and the condition typically causes pain and inflammation. While the big toe is most commonly affected, any toe can be affected. Understanding how to manage the discomfort at home is a helpful first step. Here is more information on how to manage pain from ingrown toenails:
Change Footwear
Footwear that is too tight around the toes may contribute to the problem. If your shoes crowd your toes, they might push the nail into the skin. Try wearing open-toed shoes or sandals for relief, and you may find that giving your toes more room provides some comfort.
For some people, switching to shoes with a wider toe box allows their toes to lie flat. You can test your shoes by removing the insole and standing on it; your foot should not spill over the sides. People may find that this simple adjustment makes a noticeable difference in their daily comfort levels. Try these methods:
- Choose breathable materials, such as mesh or leather, to reduce moisture buildup around your toes.
- Opt for cushioning insoles or inserts to provide extra support and reduce pressure on the toes.
- Look for adjustable footwear, such as shoes with laces or straps, to ensure a customizable fit.
Use Topicals
Over-the-counter antibiotic ointments are available, and they may help manage toenail pain. These products are applied directly to the skin around the toenail. While they do not cure the ingrown toenail, they can help protect the skin.
Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected area. After applying the ointment, cover the toe with a bandage. This helps keep the area clean, and it may prevent the ointment from rubbing off on your socks or shoes.
For minor cases, people also use pain-relieving creams. These topical analgesics create a cooling or warming sensation that temporarily distracts from the discomfort. You apply these creams to the skin around the nail, but you should not apply them to broken skin unless directed by a professional.
Soak Nail
Soaking your foot in warm, soapy water is a typical recommendation for managing discomfort. This process can help soften the skin around the toenail. To prepare the soak, fill a basin with warm water and add a mild soap. Some people may add Epsom salt to the water, while soap and water are also effective.
Splint Nail
After soaking the nail, you might be able to lift the edge of the ingrown nail slightly. Placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the nail edge can help. This small splint gently guides the nail to grow above the skin edge instead of into it.
This method requires careful handling.
- Lift the nail corner away from the skin.
- Roll a tiny piece of sterile cotton.
- Place the cotton under the nail.
- Change the cotton daily.
The goal is to create a small separation between the nail and the skin, and this separation may relieve some of the pressure on the soft tissue. If this process causes significant pain, it is best to stop.
Remove an Ingrown Toenail Today
A podiatrist can assess the ingrown toenail and discuss treatment options with you. They can perform a procedure to remove the portion of the nail that is growing into the skin, providing a more direct solution to the problem. If you are struggling with a painful ingrown toenail, we are here to help. Contact a podiatry clinic today to schedule your appointment.
