Ingrown toes can be painful and unsightly but the doctors of Chestnut Hill Podiatry Associates in Philadelphia, PA, and Huntingdon Valley, PA, can help.

Ingrown toenails happen when a toenail is curved and grows into or digs into the skin on the toe. This can happen after a trauma like stubbing your toe or after cutting your nails too short. Poor footwear choices can be to blame for ingrown toenails, and some people inherit the tendency to get ingrown toenails. It's best to treat ingrown toenails right away because they are prone to infection. Come see us in Huntingdon Valley, PA, if you're struggling with ingrown toenails.

There are a few things you can do at home if you have an ingrown toenail:

• Soak the foot in warm water. Soaking can help relieve the pain and swelling. Dry your feet thoroughly after each soak.
• Use an antibiotic ointment on the toe to prevent infection
• Bandage the toe with a bandaid for protection
• Keep your feet dry (except for when soaking)
• Choose footwear with ample room for your toes

These steps can be taken at home, but you should see your podiatrist right away if you see signs of infection like increased pain, redness, swelling, or any drainage.

If your ingrown toenail is infected or isn't relieved by soaking, it may require further treatment. See your podiatrist, and they may perform minor surgery on the toenail. If surgery is necessary, your toe will be numbed before the toenail is cut so you shouldn't feel much discomfort. Most patients resume normal activity the next day following this minor procedure.

To prevent any further ingrown toenails, take care of your toenails by cutting them straight across. When the toe is cut too short it's easier for the skin to grow over the nail. Wear comfortable and supportive footwear that gives your toes room to wiggle!

The doctors of Chestnut Hill Podiatry Associates in Philadelphia, PA, and Huntingdon Valley, PA, can help you with ingrown toenails. Call our Philadelphia, PA office at 215-247-0879 or call our Huntingdon Valley, PA office at 215-379-5112.