Here are some helpful tips for preventing an ingrown toenail.
If you’ve dealt with an ingrown toenail before then you know how painful they can be. If you find yourself dealing with them rather regularly then you may be particularly curious as to what you can do to prevent another one from happening. From the office of our Vineland, NJ, foot doctor Dr. Jeffrey Belancio, here are some ways to reduce your risk for an ingrown toenail.
Wear Proper Shoes
The shoes you wear can increase your chances for ingrown toenails if you aren’t careful. Shoes that are too tight or bunch up the toes can put too much pressure on the nails. It’s also important that you are wearing the appropriate footwear for the activities you are performing. For example, athletes and those who work in certain environments (e.g. construction sites; factories) are often more at risk for foot and toenail-related injuries. By wearing steel-toed shoes or proper athletic footwear you can provide ample support and protection.
Understand the Basics of Trimming Nails
Yes, there are techniques involved in how to properly trim your toenails. In fact, improper trimming is one of the leading causes of an ingrown toenail. So, if you are particularly prone to this nail problem, it’s best to take a look at how you trim your nails.
While you should trim them often to make sure they don’t get too long, you also don’t want to trim them too short either. If toenails are too short this can put added pressure on them when wearing shoes, which can cause the edge of the nail to grow directly into the skin. A good rule of thumb to follow: Keep nails level with the tips of your toes.
While curving your toenails may be a more appealing look, this can also increase your risk for ingrown toenails. Whether you are trimming your nails yourself or turning to a salon for a professional pedicure, it’s important that you trim your toenails straight across and not at a curve.
Check Your Feet
If you have diabetes it is particularly important that you examine your feet every day to look for signs of an ingrown toenail or other problems that require immediate attention. Even the smallest symptoms and issues could turn into ulcers, infections and other serious complications. Our foot doctor works with many diabetic patients living in Vineland, NJ, and can provide you with the customized treatment and care you need to protect the health of your feet.
If you are looking for a foot doctor who can address your ingrown toenail, heel pain or other foot problems then call South Jersey Foot and Ankle Specialists in Vineland, NJ, today at (856) 839-0579.