Do your toes hurt? Do they look dark and swollen? If so, you could be suffering from ingrown toenails. An unfortunately common problem, ingrown toenails can make it painful to put on shoes, walk, or even stand still. Luckily, your local podiatrist is here to help! Dr. Rose M. Sotolongo in Ridgeland, MS, offers a wide range of foot care services, including effective treatments for ingrown toenails—read on to learn how she can help you.
More about Ingrown Toenails
This condition occurs when a toenail curves into the adjoining flesh, consequently causing pressure, fluid buildup, and pain. While sometimes ingrown toenails are inveitable (as in times of physical trauma), there are still a number of steps you can take in order to prevent ingrown toenails. Remember to:
- Always wear comfortable shoes that don’t crush your toes
- Always cut your toenails straight across with no rounded corners
- Never cut toenails too short
If you already have an ingrown toenail, it is sometimes possible to find relief from the pain by implementing a few simple home remedies, including:
- Soaking your toe several times each day in warm water
- Gently placing dental floss underneath your toenail to raise it up from your skin
- Supporting and cushioning your toe with cotton
- Applying antibiotic cream and bandaging your toe
- Wearing sandals or open-toed shoes until your toe heals
For stubborn, painful ingrown toenails that don’t respond to home therapies, it’s best to seek out the help of your podiatrist. Dr. Sotolongo may recommend:
- Thinning or trimming your toenail to reduce pressure
- Lifting the nail up off of the surrounding tissue to allow the nail to grow freely
- Removing part or all of your ingrown toenail to allow a healthy new nail to grow
Contact Us
Ingrown toenails can cause pressure, pain, and an unsightly appearance. However, f you are struggling with ingrown toenails, don’t worry—relief is just a phone call away. Pick up your phone and dial (601) 206-9101 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rose M. Sotolongo in Ridgeland, MS, today!