If you’ve ever dealt with an ingrown toenail, you know how absolutely aggravating and painful they can be! An ingrown toenail can seriously interfere with your day-to-day life. Unfortunately for some people, if they’ve dealt with an ingrown toenail once, they’re likely to have it happen again.
Why should you get an ingrown toenail treated?
An ingrown toenail might seem like quite a minor issue that you can just ignore and hope it will clear up on its own. This is a dangerous approach to take as an untreated ingrown toenail can cause a serious infection. If you’re one of our diabetic patients, this could cause devastating consequences.
Can I prevent ingrown toenails?
The best way to prevent ingrown toenails is to take practice good foot and toenail hygeine. Trim your nail straight across the top of your nail, not rounded so it lines up with the end of your toes. Shorter toenails can lead to higher risks of infections, so if you have your nails done at a salon, make sure the technician cuts them straight across. If you have diabetes or if you’re unable to trim your toes on your own, please call our office for help.
Your shoe choice can also help prevent ingrown toenails, as ill-fitting shoes can contribute to a recurring issue. Tight shoes squeeze your toes together, which can compress the nail into the edge of the nail bed. That is why if you have children, it’s important to make sure their shoes are not too tight, especially since they outgrow them rapidly.
Diabetes and ingrown toenails
If you are one of our diabetic patients, you are more likely to develop ingrown toenails and other foot conditions. Diabetes affects the blood flow to your feet, which can cause these issues to become exacerbated rapidly. Inspect your feet on a daily basis and make regular appointments with your podiatrist to prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.
Our foot doctors can help!
We understand the frustration of dealing with a recurrent foot problem. Let our podiatrists help you tackle it once and for all! At San Antonio Podiatry Associates, PLLC, our team of podiatrists can help assess your ingrown toenails and provide the best course of treatment that will minimize chances of recurrence. Schedule an appointment at any of our locations today by calling 210-899-1026 or book an appointment online.
