With summer in full swing, the last thing anyone wants to ruin their fun is a nagging pain in your big toe. If you’re struggling with that issue, you might be dealing with a dreaded ingrown toenail. The team at North Texas Foot & Ankle knows that you don’t want to let this issue linger, especially during the summer. So, let’s dive into why you should handle ingrown toenails sooner rather than later, and how you can enjoy the sunny season without any foot woes!

What’s the Fuss About Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails are when the edge of your toenail grows right into the tender skin surrounding it. They can cause pain, redness, swelling, and even lead to infection if not taken care of promptly. It can even make your toe feel hot to the touch if severe enough.

Don’t Let Ingrown Toenails Spoil Your Summer Fun

Summer is all about frolicking on sandy beaches, dancing at outdoor festivals, and hiking through scenic trails. The last thing you need is an ingrown toenail slowing you down and putting a damper on your adventures. That’s why it’s essential to tackle ingrown toenails head-on. 

Prevention Is Key

There are ways to keep ingrown toenails at bay. First, trim your toenails straight across, avoiding the temptation to curve the edges. This simple technique can work wonders in preventing ingrown toenails from cropping up. Also, don’t pick at your toenails if one gets snagged or slightly torn. Picking can allow germs from your hands to slip under the nail, increasing your risk of infection and your chances of an ingrown toenail. 

Don’t Ignore the Signs of Ingrown Toenails

The worst thing you can do is ignore an ingrown toenail, hoping it’ll magically disappear. Ignoring the problem will only allow it to fester and worsen, leading to more pain and discomfort. So, if you notice any signs of an ingrown toenail, like pain, redness, or swelling, don’t put off seeking help – your feet will thank you!

DIY Home Remedies Might Not Cut It

Some of you might be tempted to whip out your nail clippers and attempt a DIY ingrown toenail surgery. While a bit of soaking your feet in warm water and gently lifting the corner of the ingrown nail might help initially, it’s not a long-term solution. In fact, improper trimming can make matters worse and lead to more pain and infection. Step away from the clippers and put your trust in a professional like those at North Texas Foot & Ankle.

Seek Professional Help – Podiatrists to the Rescue!

As we just mentioned, when dealing with an ingrown toenail, don’t hesitate to reach out to a podiatrist. They know their stuff and can provide the best care for your ingrown toenails as well as countless other issues. They’ll know how to relieve the pain, treat and prevent any infections, and even show you how to prevent future issues from ruining your summer plans.

Stay Sandal-Ready

We all know how much people love flaunting perfectly pedicured toes in stylish summer sandals. Taking care of ingrown toenails now will ensure you can keep doing that! Show some love to your feet, and they’ll be ready to rock open-toed shoes all summer long.

Don’t let this pesky problem rob you of your fun in the sun. Specialists like those at North Texas Foot & Ankle are ready to help! Our incredible professional team can assess your issues, provide an accurate diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options. Give us a call at 214-574-WALK(9255). The team at North Texas Foot & Ankle is ready to help!