Do I Have an Ingrown Toenail?

June 29, 2021

An ingrown toenail is a frustrating foot condition that affects the edges or corners of our toenails. In most cases, an ingrown toenail will affect your big toe. The growth of an ingrown toenail pierces the skin next to the nail as it grows inwards, hence the name. Ingrown toenails can be accompanied by redness and slight swelling, are typically painful and may feel tender to the touch. They may seem like a minor issue, but ignoring an ingrown toenail can lead to infections, increased pain, and more serious foot conditions.

Today, we’re going to go over everything you need to know about ingrown toenails. At Feet First Clinic, one of our goals is to educate people on how to recognize the warning signs for various foot conditions: We’ll give you some tips on how to spot an ingrown toenail if you suspect you have one. We’ll also let you know some preventative tips for avoiding them in the future, as well as what treatment options are available to you.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Luckily, the main causes of an ingrown toenail are lifestyle habits that we can change! Simple things like wearing an ill-fitting shoe or a bad job Cutting your toenails can contribute to painful ingrown toenails. A small accident, such as stubbing your toe or cracking your toenail can also lead to an ingrown toenail. Below you will find a list of the main causes of ingrown toenails (Don’t worry, we’ll also let you know how you can prevent them!):

Wearing ill-fitting shoes that crowd your toes
Naturally curled or curved toenails
Not cutting your nails properly (cutting them too much or on an angle)
A minor toe injury, such as stubbing your toe
According to OrthoInfo, your nail may simply be too large for your toe
Neglecting your toenails (not cutting them for a long time)

How do I Know if I Have an Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown toenails look like small growths or swelling next to your toenail. They typically affect the big toe and cause tenderness and redness. If you suspect you have this foot condition, you should start treatment from home and also be assessed by a chiropodist.

Since ingrown toenails pierce our skin, untreated ingrown toenails can lead to an infection and other harmful toenail conditions, such as Toenail fungus. Symptoms of an infected toenail to look out for are:

Bleeding
Pus or drainage from your toe
Worsening pain accompanied by throbbing
Signs of toenail fungus (Cracked toenail, yellow discolouration, toenail odour)

If you suspect you already have an infection, we recommend seeing your doctor or a foot specialist immediately.

It should also be noted that Diabetes patients are at a greater risk of developing complications from ingrown toenails, like infection. This is due to diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), a lack of blood circulation to the feet, and a compromised immune system. Diabetes patients should always maintain routine visits with a qualified foot specialist to pinpoint ingrown toenails, and other foot conditions, as early as possible.

How can I Treat an Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown toenails can be treated with a combination of chiropody services and at-home foot care.

From home, you can soak your feet in a foot bath, which will properly clean your feet and ease foot pain. You should also ditch any shoes that are too small and invest in proper fitting footwear. Specifically, you may want to try wearing shoes with an open toe while you’re in the healing stage. Continuing to wear ill-fitting shoes will prevent the ingrown toenail from healing and make things worse.

Furthermore, a Chiropodist can provide the following treatment services for ingrown toenails, particularly if there are signs of infection:

To stop the nail from piercing the skin, they can soften the skin and then lift the edge of the nail. This allows the skin to heal and the nail to grow properly.
If an infection is present, your chiropodist may numb your toe with a local anesthetic before cutting open the infected area and allowing the pus to drain.
Antibiotics, including creams and oral medications, can be prescribed in the case of an infection.
Chiropodists can perform minor Surgical procedures (partial nail avulsion and total nail avulsion) for persistent ingrown toenails.
Chiropodists can perform routine Nail care services. Many people find proper nail care difficult to maintain from home (so much bending!).
Depending on your situation, your foot specialist may recommend routine follow-up visits. In any case, Annual foot assessments are encouraged for everyone to maintain optimal foot health.

How Can I Prevent an Ingrown Toenail?

From home, you should focus on learning how to cut toenails and keeping them properly trimmed. You should also keep your feet clean and observe your feet for cuts and scrapes. Proper footwear is also a key component to preventing future ingrown toenails. Your shoes should have a roomy toe box so your toes fit comfortably and aren’t bunched together.

Here is a comprehensive list of some preventative measures:

Always cut your toenails straight across, never at an angle.
Likewise, avoid cutting your toenails down too much.
Wear shoes with enough toe room to avoid crowded toes. A Shoe fitting can help if you have trouble with this.
We know it’s tricky, but be careful to not stub your toe.
Keep your feet clean and dry.
High-quality Footwear can also help you prevent toe trauma if you play sports.

Dealing with an Ingrown Toenail? Worry Not!

If you’re looking for more information, you can check out our downtown Toronto foot clinic’s Page on ingrown toenails!

Likewise, if you think you may need treatment, feel free to reach out to us. We pride ourselves in effectively communicating your concerns and needs as comfortably as possible. Don’t hesitate to call anytime to ask about your specific concerns. Our foot care experts are eager to provide actionable steps towards getting your feet as healthy as possible!

Call us at 416-769-FEET(3338) or Book Your Assessment Today!

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! After a successful 12 years of treating our amazing patients, we’re ready to continue offering only the best foot care services and products. Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

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April 18, 2024

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

Innovation has always been important in the healthcare world, with chiropody and innovative foot treatments being no exception! These days, with advanced foot care, you can enjoy pain management and comfort without resorting to a time-consuming ordeal like surgery. Let’s explore the services you can participate in thanks to innovation and great ideas! Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024 Confusing and lengthy procedures can cause you to neglect the foot condition you may be struggling with, so modern treatments should save you time and put you at ease! Here are some of the best innovative treatments available today: Shockwave therapy Custom orthotics Video gait analysis Onyfix Splinting and taping Shockwave Therapy Healthcare professionals have been using shockwave therapy to address musculoskeletal conditions since the 1980s. While the term “shockwave” can be off-putting, it’s a totally non-invasive procedure and most patients report very mild discomfort and no pain. Shockwave therapy is quickly shaping up to be one of the best Achille’s tendonitis, Morton’s neuroma, and plantar fasciitis solutions. It works by targeting injured tissues, boosting blood circulation and stimulating a natural healing response in our bodies. To learn more about shockwave therapy, click here. Custom Orthotics Orthotics date back to ancient civilization when humans started to realize their feet needed more support! As the centuries passed, they have become one of the most innovative treatments because now chiropodists and manufacturers can mold them to fit your specific needs. Custom orthotics treat a wide range of conditions and help correct your gait. To learn more, click here. Video Gait Analysis A video gait analysis uses technology and visuals to determine what type of unique gait (walking pattern) you have. Think of it as a much more advanced version of walking on a treadmill! It gives your chiropodist the insight they need to help you correct it and avoid pain as much as possible. To learn more, click here. OnyFix Imagine if you could alter your nail growth pattern without using invasive tools? Primarily used as an ingrown toenail treatment, OnyFix uses composite material to ensure your nails grow evenly and correctly! It’s one of the newest chiropody treatments and only became popular in North America within the past decade or so. To learn more, click here. Splinting, Taping and Correction Tapes, splints and other devices can help people manage foot deformities without surgeries. For example, patients often experience bunion relief with bunion correctors, which are both affordable and comfortable and put your toes in an optimal position. Splinting and taping can also do the same for various conditions! To learn more, click here.

March 21, 2024

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Foot hygiene and solid foot care tips are your secret weapons for happy and healthy feet! Everyone should practice a clean and healthy foot routine, but those with foot conditions such as diabetes or chronic fungal infections should be extra vigilant. Today we’ll talk about the best foot cleaning practices and how to implement them into your daily foot care routine. Foot Health Essentials: How to Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Foot hygiene is pretty straightforward stuff! But you may make some minor missteps along the way. Take a look below at the best ways to wash, dry and moisturize your feet. Washing Your Feet Wash your feet daily with natural, gentle soaps in warm water. Hot water can negatively impact your blood circulation by increasing the size of the blood vessels, so be careful with temperatures. Moisturizing Your Feet Use lotion on the bottom and top of your feet. This can help you prevent calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more. Natural, fragrance-free and medicinal lotions are your best bet (try Gehwol at Feet First Clinic!). If you have diabetes, be extra careful to avoid putting lotion in between your toes; it could cause an infection depending on the lotion. Fungal infections also favour wet toes and tend to appear there. Keeping Your Feet Dry Thoroughly dry your feet after washing them. If you get lazy and keep them damp, you are again more likely to attract contagious fungal infections (they love moist environments!). Invest in products that help manage foot dampness and repel excess moisture. These include moisture-wicking socks (also remember to change your sock frequently!), waterproof shoes and boots, running shoes with perforated holes in the uppers, and various foot deodorant products (creams, powders, sprays). These products are also great for preventing foot odour. Toenail Care and Foot Hygiene Keeping your nails in top shape is an important element of foot hygiene. Follow these nail care tips to protect your nails and keep them clean and strong. Cut your nails straight across with high-quality nail clippers. Don’t try to shape them during this stage! Avoid cutting your nails too close to the skin; this will cause ingrown toenails. Gently use a nail file for subtle shaping. Don’t try to cut your own cuticles if you’re prone to infections. They protect the nails and getting rid of them improperly may welcome fungi. Schedule a medical pedicure for professional care and a cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.

March 18, 2024

Tips for Healthy Toenails: Prevention and Care

Toenail care is your shield from future foot issues. Foot conditions affecting the toenails can lead to infections, fungus, brittle and damaged nails, pain, bleeding and more. But you have the power to prevent these complications! By investing in proper footwear, learning to trim your nails properly, and more, you can take the reins on your toenail health. Let's talk toenails! Preventing Fungal Infections and Other Toenail Conditions Practice Proper Toenail Trimming It would be nice to have a professional always trim our nails for us, but sometimes we do have to do toenail care ourselves. To prevent issues or conditions, trim your nails following these two simple steps: Use nail clippers to trim straight across (very important), avoiding curved edges. Smooth edges with a nail file if needed. Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Fungal toenails love when you forget to care for your feet. Make sure you always thoroughly clean and dry your feet before wearing socks and shoes. To go the extra mile and protect from skin issues, moisturize, exfoliate and use a foot file. Avoid areas where contagious fungal viruses breed and are passed along. These include public pool grounds, public showers, shared locker rooms, and more. If you frequent places like this, always wear shoes. Pedicure safety and hygiene are also very important when it comes to prevention. Schedule medical pedicure appointments with your chiropodist instead of a cosmetic pedicure to avoid contracting a contagious fungal infection and for a more health-focused experience. Learn more about the difference between a cosmetic and medical pedicure. Make Healthy Footwear Choices The link connecting toenail issues and footwear may seem unclear, but picture it this way: When our shoes are too tight it often means there is not enough room for the toes to spread out naturally. This can wreak havoc on your nails and you also risk annoying ingrown toenails or a cracked toenail. Always buy shoes with enough room in the toe box! Take it to the next level by looking for running shoes with mesh uppers that allow air to flow inside the shoe. This is a bonus way of keeping your toes fresh and protecting against fungal infections. Check out this handy shoe shopping checklist for even more help! Toenail Care for Pre-existing Conditions Anti-fungal Treatments for Toenails You won’t be able to treat a current fungal infection without using antifungal products or visiting a chiropodist. Products include sprays, ointments and sometimes pills. At times, over-the-counter versions like ClearNails Pro + (available at Feet First Clinic) are enough, but other times, you’ll need a prescription for a persistent infection. Chiropodists can also perform nail debridement, which involves removing the infected part of the nail and thinning the outer layers of the toenail. This allows prescription-strength topical antifungal medication to penetrate the toenail and reach the fungus. Treating Cracked Toenails Cracked toenails are more of a nuisance than a serious problem. But messing with your toenails in any way can still cause bleeding and pain. You may be more susceptible to cracks if your nails are weak and brittle. If you’re looking for some ways to speed up nail growth, but also to strengthen your nails as they are, try these toenail growth tips: As we've mentioned, trim nails straight across and avoid trimming too close to the skin Again, wear well-fitting shoes. Tight shoes can disrupt healthy toenail growth. Protect toenails during physical activities. Avoid excessive use of nail polish. While polish itself doesn’t slow growth, some types can cause toenail dehydration, making your nails more likely to crack. Eat a balanced diet for nail health. Treating Ingrown Toenails OnyFix is a useful and modern way of treating ingrown toenails. It involves the application of a specialized corrective strip to the affected nail. Nail avulsions can also be a good idea for chronic, severe ingrown nails, and chiropodists may tackle infections using certain draining methods. Treating Toenail Discolouration Discoloured toenails are tricky because the colours can vary wildly. Discolouration caused by a fungal infection (green or yellow) may be treated using similar methods as fungal toenails. But if your discolouration is black, blue, purple, or red, this is probably linked to a mild blunt-force trauma injury (like dropping something on your toe). It’s best to schedule a nail care appointment to determine the culprit!

February 29, 2024

Overcoming Common Foot Ailments: A Guide to Relief

Our feet are the unsung heroes of our daily lives, carrying us through countless steps and bearing the weight of our entire bodies. Yet, despite their importance, we often neglect their care until discomfort or pain strikes. From pesky corns to stubborn plantar fasciitis, foot ailments can range from minor annoyances to significant impediments. However, with proactive measures and some TLC, you can overcome these standard foot issues and put your best foot forward. This blog post explores practical strategies for alleviating and preventing some of the most prevalent foot ailments. Corns and calluses Corns and calluses are thickened, hardened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. They often form on the toes, heels, or balls of the feet and can be unsightly and uncomfortable. Corns are small and circular and are often found on the non-weight bearing, bonier parts of the foot where the skin is thinner - like the toes. Calluses, on the other hand, typically occur on the weight-bearing parts of the foot, like the balls of the foot and heel, and tend to be larger than corns. Prevention Minimizing friction and pressure on the affected areas is essential to prevent corns and calluses. This can be achieved by wearing properly fitting footwear with ample cushioning and support, using protective pads or inserts, and regularly moisturizing the skin to keep it soft and supple. Treatments Gentle exfoliation using a pumice stone or foot file can help remove dead skin cells and reduce thickness. Additionally, moisturizers or emollients can soften the skin and reduce the size of corns and calluses over time. If your corns or calluses are especially painful, you can see a chiropodist to safely and painlessly have them removed. Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis, characterized by inflammation of the thick band of tissue across the bottom of your foot, can cause stabbing pain near the heel. Treatments You can do stretching exercises, wear supportive shoes, use custom orthotic inserts or Superfeet, apply ice packs, and try physical therapy. If your plantar fasciitis is chronic (i.e., it has persisted longer than 3-6 months), you may also consider shockwave therapy. Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, effective treatment where soundwaves are applied to the affected area. This stimulates your body's inflammatory response to heal the plantar fasciitis. Prevention Maintain a healthy weight, wear supportive shoes, avoid excessive high-impact activities, and incorporate regular stretching into your routine. Avoid sudden increases in physical activity, and take occasional rest days to allow your feet to recover. Rapid increases in intensity can overload the heel and plantar fascia. Instead, take a cautious approach to building up volume and reduce the intensity if you notice any discomfort. Bunions Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, often causing pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. Treatments While bunions cannot be reversed, there are many ways to manage them. Some methods for managing bunions include splinting the affected area, wearing shoes with a wide-toe box, avoiding high heels, wearing custom orthotics, and performing various stretches and exercises to strengthen the muslces in the foot and ankle. In severe cases, surgery is a potential treatment option. Prevention Choose shoes with ample toe space, avoid high heels or narrow shoes, maintain a healthy weight, and practice foot exercises to strengthen muscles and improve alignment. Custom orthotics and even toe spacers can be effective depending on the severity of your bunions. Ingrown Toenails Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and infection. Treatments If your ingrown toenail is in its early stages and not causing any discomfort, you can try growing out the toenail. Then, soak the foot in warm water, gently lift the ingrown edge of the nail, and cut the toenail straight across. Ingrown toenails are prone to infection, so you feel any pain and discomfort, we recommend seeing a foot specialist like a chiropodist to avoid any complications. While waiting to see the chiropodist, you can soak the foot in warm water with epson salts, keep the area clean and dry and apply antibiotic ointment (if you suspect infection). Prevention Trim toenails straight across, avoid cutting them too short, wear proper-fitting shoes, and avoid picking or tearing at the nails. Athlete's Foot Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that causes itching, burning, and cracked skin between the toes. Treatments Keep feet clean and dry, apply antifungal creams or powders, wear breathable socks and shoes, and avoid sharing footwear or walking barefoot in public places. Prevention Practice good foot hygiene, wear moisture-wicking socks, rotate shoes to allow them to dry thoroughly between wears, and use antifungal foot powder as a preventive measure. In more severe or persistent cases, professional medical treatment may be necessary, including trimming or debriding the thickened skin.

February 15, 2024

High-Heel Health: Protecting Your Feet in Heels

High heels make a fashionable statement and give you a boost of confidence while taking your outfits to new heights. No one can deny, they look good! But are they good for your foot health? Should we really be wearing them? “Healthy high heels'' may seem like a misnomer, but the truth is, there are ways you can maintain your foot health, even as a high-heel lover. Let’s dive into the topic of healthy high heels and learn how you can simultaneously prioritize fashion trends and foot function. Top 3 Ways to Protect Your Feet in Heels While high heels may cause issues by altering the natural position of the foot-ankle complex, there are ways you can implement them into your daily life to minimize these effects: Choose healthy high heels Minimize high heel strain Perform strengthening exercises Choose Healthy High Heels Fashionable foot health sometimes means avoiding risky shoe choices. If the main goal of wearing heels is to establish a stylish height that pairs well with clothing, there are options you can choose that aren’t the typical ultra-high, pointed-toe stiletto. Heeled shoes that focus on health can come as boots, wedges, and platforms - even pumps! All of which usually offer more stability, arch support and cushioning, without sacrificing style. Minimize High Heel Strain Minimizing high heel strain involves implementing some simple tips and remembering the importance of foot care in heels. Here are some to consider: Take breaks If you choose to wear a stiletto or another heel with a low level of support and stability, make sure you bring a back-up pair of shoes to change into when you need a break. Opt for lower heels Lower heels can prevent foot injuries by offering better stability and centre of gravity. Unsurprisingly, it is also easier to walk and maintain balance with a lower heel. Opt for thicker heels Thicker heels provide more support and stability than stilettos. They're also less likely to break than thin, hour-glass shaped heels. A broken heel poses a risk of tripping and falling. Wear insoles with your heels If your heels can accommodate them, wear Superfeet insoles for added comfort and support. Ensure a proper fit Unbeknownst to you, your feet can often change in size as the years pass. Make sure you try your heels on and walk around the store to assess how you move in them. Ensure there is ample room for your toes to reduce your risk of bunions, ingrown toenails, and more. Attending a proper shoe fitting at a foot clinic can also guarantee a perfect fit. Perform Strengthening Exercises There's no denying that wearing heels can be risky. You increase your chances of developing bunions, hammertoes, and other conditions, and sudden falls and foot injuries are more likely. That said, strengthening exercises for heel wearers can add an extra layer of protection against these issues! Try some toe-targeted exercises to keep those bunions at bay, and ankles movements to help with stability and balance. Toe Splays Sit or stand and spread your toes apart as far as you can. Hold for a few seconds, then bring them back together. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions. Ankle Circles Lift one foot off the ground and rotate your ankle clockwise for 15 seconds. Reverse the direction and rotate counterclockwise for 15 seconds. Switch to the other foot and repeat. Towel Scrunches Place a towel or piece of fabric on the floor and stand on it with your bare feet. Scrunch the towel toward you using only your toes. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions. For a list of more extensive exercises that target the rest of the foot, check out these resources: Top of the Foot Pain Exercises Morning Foot Exercises to Start Your Day Pain Free A Beginner’s Guide to Exercises for Relieving Arthritis

February 8, 2024

Senior Foot Care: Staying Active and Pain-Free

As the golden years unfold, maintaining an active and pain-free lifestyle should be a priority for seniors. One often overlooked aspect of overall well-being is foot health. Our feet, the unsung heroes of a lifetime of steps, require special attention to ensure comfort and mobility. This article delves into practical foot care tips for seniors, empowering you to stride into each day pain-free and with a zest for life. Choose supportive footwear The foundation of pain-free feet lies in the shoes we wear. Opt for supportive footwear with cushioning, proper arch support, and a comfortable fit. Also consider wearing supportive footwear indoors to provide support and protect against slips and falls on slippery surfaces. Read our complete guide to senior foot care in this blog post. Regular foot inspections Make it a habit to inspect your feet regularly. Look for any changes in colour, swelling, or unusual growth. Recognizing early signs of issues can prevent more significant problems, ensuring your feet remain a source of strength - not pain. Gentle foot exercises Keep those joints and muscles limber with gentle foot exercises. To do this, add lower leg exercises to your daily routine to maintain and improve mobility. Exercises like ankle circles, toe flexes, and heel lifts can improve flexibility and strength, promoting pain-free movement. Moisturize and combat dry skin Seniors often contend with drier skin, leading to cracks and discomfort. Combat this by moisturizing your feet regularly, paying particular attention to the heels and soles; Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to issues. You may also consider regular foot care appointments with a chiropodist, who specialize in senior foot care. Elevate your feet to reduce swelling After a day of activity, give your feet a break. Elevate them when resting to reduce swelling and promote healthy blood circulation. This simple practice can significantly affect how your feet feel after a busy day. Address foot pain promptly Don't ignore foot pain or discomfort. Consult with a chiropodist or healthcare professional to address any issues promptly. Early addressing can help combat the development of chronic conditions and ensure that your feet remain pain-free. Consider an annual foot assessment for a comprehensive check-up on the health of your feet. Studies show that physical examination of the feet as part of the routine assessment of older adults is imperative to detect foot problems. A foot assessment includes: Circulation and blood flow to your feet Neurological status Changes or concerns with the skin and toenails Your foot type (i.e., flat feet, normal arches or high arches) Biomechanical abnormalities (i.e. limited or excessive range of motion in joints, areas of pain, overpronation, etc.) Low-impact exercises for overall health Staying active is vital to a vibrant lifestyle. Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or tai chi to promote cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on your feet and joints. Custom orthopedic inserts Enhance comfort and support by considering custom orthopedic inserts for your shoes. These inserts provide additional cushioning and support for your arches, reducing the risk of foot-related discomfort. Prioritize circulation Good circulation - the rate at which your blood flows to and from various body parts - is vital for overall foot health. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing, and consider simple exercises to promote blood circulation. Compression stockings can also benefit you by improving your blood circulation. Your feet will thank you for the improved oxygen and nutrient supply. Maintain a holistic approach to health Remember that foot health is interconnected with your overall well-being. Maintain a balanced diet, manage your weight, and stay hydrated. A healthy lifestyle reflects positively on your feet and contributes to your ability to stay active.

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What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

How do I Know if I Have an Ingrown Toenail?

How can I Treat an Ingrown Toenail?

How Can I Prevent an Ingrown Toenail?

Dealing with an Ingrown Toenail? Worry Not!

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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Related Posts

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Tips for Healthy Toenails: Prevention and Care

Overcoming Common Foot Ailments: A Guide to Relief

High-Heel Health: Protecting Your Feet in Heels

Senior Foot Care: Staying Active and Pain-Free

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