An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This condition typically affects the great toe and can cause discomfort, redness, and swelling. Here is more information on at-home methods for managing the pain associated with an ingrown toenail:
Proper Foot Soaking Techniques
Treating an ingrown toenail starts at home, unless it’s recurrent or infected. Soaking the affected foot in warm water can soften the skin and nail, which may reduce discomfort. A typical procedure involves immersing the foot in warm, soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes, up to three times per day. The warmth helps to increase blood flow to the area, while the soap assists in keeping the skin clean. Following the soak, you should dry the foot completely. This practice can make the skin around the toenail more pliable and may lessen the pressure exerted by the nail edge.
Adding Epsom salt to the water is another common practice. The salt may help to reduce swelling and provide some relief from the pain. The process remains the same: dissolve a recommended amount of Epsom salt in a basin of warm water and soak the foot for the specified duration. Maintaining the cleanliness of all tools and containers used for soaking is a standard practice to prevent complications.
Correct Nail Trimming and Care
Proper nail trimming techniques can help manage an existing ingrown toenail and prevent future occurrences. You should cut toenails straight across, avoiding a rounded or curved shape at the corners. This method discourages the nail edge from digging into the adjacent skin fold. You can use a clean nail file to gently smooth the corners after trimming.
After a foot soak, when the skin is soft, you can attempt to gently lift the edge of the ingrown nail. A small piece of cotton or dental floss can be carefully placed under the nail border. This action creates a small space between the nail and the skin, potentially guiding the nail to grow out and away from the skin. You should change the cotton or floss daily to maintain cleanliness. Avoid aggressive or forceful manipulation of the nail, as this can worsen the condition.
Protective Measures and Footwear
Protecting the affected toe from further pressure and irritation is a component of managing pain. Open-toed shoes or sandals provide space for the toe and prevent external pressure from aggravating the area. If you must wear closed-toe shoes, select footwear with a wide toe box that offers ample room and does not compress the toes.
You can also use protective coverings to shield the ingrown toenail. A bandage or a specialized toe protector can cushion the area from friction and impact. These coverings create a barrier between the toe and the inside of a shoe, which can reduce pain during daily activities. Keeping the affected area clean and dry is a general guideline when using any type of covering.
Get Treatment for an Ingrown Toenail
Managing pain from an ingrown toenail involves several at-home strategies. Regular warm water soaks can soften the skin and nails, providing temporary relief. Proper nail care, including cutting the nails straight across and gently lifting the nail edge with cotton, can address the physical cause. These methods can help alleviate discomfort associated with an ingrown toenail.