How to Fix Ingrown Toenail Permanently?

Dealing with an ingrown toenail can be both painful and frustrating. Many individuals search for a lasting solution, often asking “how to fix ingrown toenail permanently?” This blog explores the reasons behind this common problem and shares effective treatments for a lasting solution.

Join us as we explore the best methods to address and resolve this foot concern once and for all.

What Does Ingrown Toenail Mean?

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail edge grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This often affects the big toe and can sometimes lead to infection.

Figure 01. The picture of ingrown toenail.

Indicators of Identifying Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails often affect the big toe. Indications of an ingrown toenails are:

• Inflammation and redness next to the problematic nail.
• Sensitivity and discomfort in the toe.
• Discomfort caused by footwear pressure.
• Excess skin near the nail’s tip or side.
• Presence of blood or pus, or an open wound by the nail.

Ingrown Toenail Tool

Ingrown toenail tools are specific devices made to address or prevent ingrown toenails.  Experts can use these tools in clinics, while others can use them at home based on how complex or simple they are.

Ingrown toenails corrector include: 

Figure 02. Five main ingrown toenail correctors.

• Nail nippers: Clippers with curved or straight blades for thick or ingrown nails.
• Nail lifters: Separate the nail from the skin for easier trimming.
• Nail files: Smooth the nail edges post-cutting.
• Corrective nail braces: Adhesive or metal tools to adjust toenail curvature.
• Toenail protection brands/ pads: Adhesive pads to alleviate footwear pressure on the toe.
• Antiseptic solutions/ creams: Clean and safeguard against infections.

Notable brands offering ingrown toenail tools:

• Tweezerman: Renowned for high-quality personal care tools.
• Seki Edge: Features nail tools with Japanese craftsmanship.
• Dr.Scholl’s: Provides foot care items, including ingrown toenail solutions.
• Soft Touch: Produces foot care tools, especially for ingrown toenails.
• BS Brace: Recognized for their toenail correction system.

How to Fix Ingrown Toenail Permanently?

Fixing an ingrown toenail permanently often requires a combination of home treatments, preventive measures, and in some cases, medical interventions. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Figure 03. Ways to fix ingrown toenail permanently.

Proper Foot Hygiene:

• Soak the affected foot in warm water with Epsom salt for about 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day. This helps to soften the nail and reduce swelling.
• Keep the foot dry and clean.

Correct Toenail Trimming:

• Trim toenails straight across, not curved. Avoid trimming too short.
• Use proper toenail clippers instead of scissors.
• Avoid tearing the corners of the nails.

Lifting the Nail:

• After soaking, gently lift the ingrown nail edge using a sterilized needle or tweezers.
• Insert a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the lifted nail to help it grow outwards instead of into the skin. Replace this daily.

Wear Appropriate Footwear:

• Opt for shoes that fit well and provide enough room for the toes.
• Avoid high heels or tight-fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes.

Protect the Toe:

• Use over-the-counter protective pads or bandages to cushion the toe and reduce pressure.
• Apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection and cover it with a bandage.

Medical Treatment:

• If the ingrown toenail persists, becomes too painful, or gets infected, consult a podiatrist.
• A doctor can perform a minor procedure called a partial nail avulsion to remove the ingrown part of the nail.
• For recurrent issues, the doctor might recommend removing a portion of the toenail along with the underlying tissue (matrixectomy). This prevents that part of the toenail from growing back, offering a permanent solution.

Aftercare and Prevention:

• Even after treatment, continue practicing good foot hygiene.
• Opt for the right footwear.
• Monitor the toe for any signs of recurring problems.

Ingrown Toenail Home Remedy

For initial signs of an ingrown toenail, consider these home remedies:

• Soak your toe in warm water for 15 - 20 minutes regularly.
• Use antibiotic ointment and bandage the toe.
• Opt for sandals to avoid toe pressure.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Refrain from trimming the toenail.

If symptoms improve within days, the risk of serious infection is low. But if symptoms persist or return, seek medical attention.

FAQs

Do ingrown toenails go away?

If you have an ingrown toenail, you can usually treat it at home. But if it doesn't get better, or if you have a foot condition like diabetes, see a doctor.

What should you do when ingrown toenail throbbing at night?

If the ingrown toenail throbbing at night intensifies, shows signs of infection, or continues, it's essential to consult a medical professional. They can suggest treatments like partial nail removal and give advice on prevention.

Why does my toenail hurt when I press on it if it's not ingrown?

Toenails can cause pain due to various reasons like fungal infections, trauma, or other medical issues. Pain on the nail's side, not the nail itself, is typically "paronychia," an inflammation or infection of the surrounding skin.

What are the signs of infection after undergoing ingrown toenail surgery?

The signs of infection after undergoing ingrown toenail surgery include:

• The toenail shows no signs of recovery.
• Experiencing feverish symptoms or cold chills.
• Continuous pain despite using painkillers.
• Blood oozing from the toenail.
• Discharge of pus from the toenail.
• Inflammation or a reddened appearance on the toe or foot.
• The nail grows back into the skin of the toe.

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