An ingrown toenail is when a corner or edge of a nail grows into the skin, causing inflammation. It also occurs when the skin grows over the toenail bed. A broken toenail that results in an open wound can get infected and can cause serious bacterial infections. The resulting inflammation is not only painful but can cause health problems if left untreated.
Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenail
- Soak in Epsom salt and warm water
- Soaking your affected foot with a mixture of warm water and Epsom salt is a simple option for ingrown toenails.
- Apply antibiotic cream
- Over-the-counter antibiotic ointment can help reduce the risk of bacterial infections and assist with healing. Apply a Band-Aid over the toenail after application of ointment.
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Shoes that are too tight are one of the most common causes of ingrown toenails. Therefore, to prevent developing or making an ingrown toenail worse, wear shoes that have sufficient space in the toe box. Furthermore, if you already have an ingrown toenail, avoid wearing tight shoes to allow proper healing.
- Consider seeing a podiatrist for toenail removal
- If an ingrown toenail does not improve with home remedies, partial or full removal of toenail may be warranted. A podiatrist can examine and recommend full or partial removal of nail under local anesthesia.
At DFW Foot Ankle Care, Dr. Zubeen Mistry treats Bunions and Hammertoes, Diabetic Foot Care, Fungal Nails, Heel Pain / Plantar Fasciitis, Ingrown Toenails, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Neuroma, Pediatric Foot Problems, Plantar Wart, Running Injuries and many more foot problems.
