Ingrown Toenail Care
Gentle, professional care for painful toenails
A painful toenail can make everyday activities uncomfortable, from putting on shoes to going for a walk. At Sole Solutions, I offer assessment and conservative, non-surgical care for ingrown and curved toenails, with treatment tailored to your needs.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail develops when the edge or a small spike of nail pierces the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, redness and swelling, and sometimes bleeding or infection. The big toe is most commonly affected, although it can happen to any toe.
Sometimes, a nail curves into the surrounding skin without actually breaking it. This is known as an involuted nail and can also cause considerable discomfort. An assessment can help identify what is causing your pain.
How can Sole Solutions help?
I offer non-surgical treatment to help relieve pressure and irritation from the nail. Depending on your assessment and what can be treated comfortably and safely, your appointment may include:
- Carefully trimming back the troublesome nail edge or removing an accessible nail spike.
- Smoothing sharp nail edges to reduce irritation.
- Applying an appropriate dressing where needed.
- Advice on caring for your toe, changing dressings and choosing comfortable footwear.
- Guidance on nail cutting to help reduce the likelihood of further problems.
Your comfort and safety come first. I will explain the treatment options, ask for your consent before proceeding and let you know if your toe needs care beyond what I can provide.
Will I need further treatment?
Conservative care may help relieve symptoms, but it does not permanently change the way your nail grows. Some ingrown toenails return and may need further treatment.
I do not currently offer nail surgery. If your nail is repeatedly troublesome, too painful to treat conservatively, or needs treatment beyond what I can safely provide, I will discuss this with you and refer you to an appropriate podiatrist or service for further assessment.
If a more permanent intervention is needed, this may include nail surgery. The clinician receiving your referral will assess your toe and discuss the most suitable options with you.
Caring for your toenails
To help reduce irritation and the risk of ingrown toenails:
- Cut toenails straight across rather than cutting deeply down the sides.
- Avoid cutting nails too short, picking at them or tearing off the corners.
- Choose footwear with enough room around your toes.
- Keep your feet clean and dry, and allow shoes to dry between wears.
- Avoid trying to dig out a painful nail edge yourself.
When to seek prompt advice
Seek prompt professional advice if your toe is becoming increasingly painful, red or swollen, or if you notice pus or other discharge. An infected toenail may need medical assessment as well as care for the nail itself.
If you have diabetes, poor circulation or a weakened immune system and notice signs of infection, seek urgent medical assessment rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
Reduced feeling in your feet is also a reason to seek professional advice rather than attempting treatment yourself.
Take the first step towards more comfortable feet
A painful toenail does not have to be something you simply put up with. To arrange an assessment, please call, text or WhatsApp me on 07859 893205. I can assess your toe, discuss whether conservative treatment is suitable and explain any further care you may need.
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