Ingrown toenails can be annoying, uncomfortable and even painful. If they are treated improperly or a person has decreased sensation in the feet, they can become infected and even dangerous.

Like many things, preventing ingrown toenails before they even happen ensures you don’t have to deal with them.

While there may be some genetic component to ingrown toenails, there is still much that can be done to prevent them.

Proper Toenail Trimming

Cut toenails in a fairly straight line. Avoid cutting your toenails too short. This prevents your skin from overgrowing the nail. As a quick test, you should be able to get you fingernails under the sides and end of the nail.

If you have diabetes, cannot reach your feet, have dexterity issues with the clipping hands, or have sensory issues causing you to be unable to feel your feet, it is best to have a Chiropodist provide foot care for you. The tools they use are sterilized using an autoclave and are only used on your feet before being sterilized again.

Wear Well Fitted Shoes and Socks

Avoid wearing both shoes that are too small and shoes that are too big. Shoes that are too large cause greater impact of the toenails especially with running or brisk walking. Shoes that are too tight can also damage the toenail leading to ingrown toenails.

If you are unsure if you have an ingrown toenail read our previous blog post for some of the signs and symptoms and possible treatments. Contact us to book in with our Oakville Chiropodist (Foot Specialist) for routine foot care, ingrown toenail assessment / treatment and other foot care needs. Most private health care plans cover foot treatment by a Registered Chiropodist, but we always suggest you check with you individual policy.