Learn preventive tips for avoiding ingrown toenails and keeping your feet healthy. Our urgent care near you is open for walk-ins, 7 out of 7 days a week.

Chattanooga offers fantastic hiking and running opportunities, from the scenic trails of Lookout Mountain, Raccoon Mountain, and Stringer’s Ridge to the Riverwalk’s picturesque 13-mile path. However, the intense activity on rugged terrain can put strain on your toenails, potentially leading to ingrown toenails and infections if not properly managed.

Ingrown toenails can be a real pain, literally and figuratively. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce your risk of developing them in the first place. Whether you’ve had issues in the past or want to prevent them from happening, these tips can help keep your toenails healthy and pain-free.

Visit AFC Chattanooga today.

Trim Your Toenails Correctly

One of the simplest ways to prevent ingrown toenails is to cut your toenails properly. Here’s how to do it:

• Cut Straight Across: Avoid trimming your nails too short or rounding the edges. Cutting straight across helps prevent the nail from growing into the surrounding skin.
• Don’t Dig: Don’t dig into the corners of your nails. This can encourage the nail to grow inward. If you need to trim the corners, do so minimally and carefully.
• Use the Right Tools: Use clean, sharp nail clippers or nail scissors specifically designed for toenails. Dull or unsanitary tools can cause nail damage or infection.

Wear Properly Fitting Shoes

Your shoes play a crucial role in the health of your toenails. Tight or poorly fitting shoes can put undue pressure on your toes, contributing to ingrown toenails. Here’s what to look for:

• Choose the Right Size: Make sure your shoes fit well and have enough room in the toe box. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too narrow.
• Opt for Comfort: Look for shoes with a wide, deep-toe box. This allows your toes to move freely without constant pressure.
• Avoid High Heels: High heels and shoes with a narrow toe area can squeeze your toes together, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails. Opt for shoes that distribute pressure evenly across your feet.

Protect Your Feet

Certain activities and environments can put your feet at risk for injury, which can lead to ingrown toenails. Here’s how to protect your feet:

• Wear Protective Footwear: When participating in sports or activities that involve a lot of foot movement or potential injury, wear appropriate footwear to protect your toes.
• Be Cautious with Trauma: Avoid dropping heavy objects on your toes or stubbing them. Such injuries can lead to improper nail growth and increase the risk of ingrown toenails.

Maintain Good Foot Hygiene

Keeping your feet clean and dry helps prevent infections and other foot issues, including ingrown toenails. Here’s how:

• Wash and Dry Your Feet: Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moist environments can promote bacterial and fungal infections.
• Use Antifungal Powder: If you’re prone to fungal infections, consider using an antifungal powder to keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of infection.

Address Nail Issues Promptly

If you notice any signs of an ingrown toenail, such as pain, redness, or swelling, address them early. Here’s what you can do:

• Soak Your Feet: Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salts to reduce swelling and soften the nail.
• Lift the Nail: Gently lift the edge of the nail using a small piece of cotton or dental floss. This can help the nail grow out above the skin.
• Visit AFC Chattanooga: If home remedies don’t work or if you notice signs of infection, consult with our team of healthcare pros l for further treatment.

Regular Foot Check-Ups

If you’re prone to ingrown toenails or have a condition that affects your feet, regular foot check-ups can help catch problems early:

• See a Podiatrist: A podiatrist can examine your feet and toenails regularly, especially if you have diabetes or other health conditions that affect your foot health.
• Monitor Changes: Pay attention to any changes in your toenails and feet and seek professional advice if you notice any concerning signs.

Preventing ingrown toenails involves a combination of proper nail care, wearing the right footwear, protecting your feet, maintaining good hygiene, addressing issues early, and getting regular check-ups. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing ingrown toenails and keep your feet healthy and comfortable. If it’s a more serious case, be sure to visit our urgent care clinic near you in Chattanooga, TN for effective treatment and care.