Ingrown toenails can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, caused by the nail growing into the skin surrounding the nail bed. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can become infected and require medical attention. In this article, we’ll outline how to relieve ingrown toenail pain using a step-by-step format that is easy to follow.
Step 1: Soak Your Feet
The first step in relieving ingrown toenail pain is to soak your feet in warm water. This will help to soften the skin and nail, making it easier to gently lift the nail away from the skin.
Fill a large basin with warm water and add a tablespoon of Epsom salt. Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes, or until the water cools down. If you don’t have Epsom salt, you can use regular table salt instead.
Step 2: Gently Lift the Nail
After soaking your feet, use a pair of tweezers or a cotton ball to gently lift the edge of the ingrown toenail away from the skin. Be careful not to pull the nail too forcefully, as this can cause further pain and damage to the nail bed.
If you’re unable to lift the nail on your own, seek the assistance of a podiatrist or other medical professional.
Step 3: Apply an Antiseptic
Once you’ve lifted the nail, apply an antiseptic ointment to the affected area. This will help to prevent infection and promote healing.
You can find antiseptic ointments at your local pharmacy or drugstore. Look for products that contain ingredients like tea tree oil, which have natural antiseptic properties.
Step 4: Cover with a Bandage
After applying the antiseptic, cover the affected area with a sterile bandage. This will help to keep the area clean and protected from further irritation.
Make sure to change the bandage regularly, at least once per day, to prevent infection and promote healing.
Step 5: Wear Proper Footwear
To prevent further ingrown toenails and relieve pain, it’s important to wear proper footwear. Avoid tight shoes that put pressure on the toes, and opt for shoes with a wider toe box and good arch support.
If you participate in activities like running or hiking, make sure to wear shoes that are specifically designed for those activities and provide adequate support and cushioning.
Step 6: Visit a Podiatrist
If your ingrown toenail is severe or causing significant pain, it’s important to seek medical attention from a podiatrist or other medical professional. They can provide more advanced treatments like surgical removal of the affected nail.
If you’re unsure how to relieve ingrown toenail pain or have questions about your specific condition, consult a medical professional or visit a website like howitsdone.net for additional resources and step-by-step tutorials on how to treat ingrown toenails.
