Take Care of Those Tootsies…

The words “mani/pedi” generally conjures up thoughts of women at nail salons.  However, men definitely should get a ‘mani/pedi’ too.  The benefits of professional nail care and grooming are countless.  Most commonly, professional nail grooming aids in preventing ingrown nails – specifically toenails.  According to emedicinehealth.com (2012), “They are more common in men than in women.” Since knowledge is power, the key is understanding what causes ingrown toenails and how to treat them.

Medically speaking an ingrown toenail is known as onychocryptosis or unguis incarnatus and is a painful condition.  Simply put, when a toenail digs into the skin of the toe – you have an ingrown toenail. Once the sharp corner embeds itself into the skin, symptoms include swelling, soreness, and redness.  If not cared for, the skin can further grow over the nail and/or infection can set in.  Even though any toe is susceptible – the outer edge of the big toe is usually the victim.

Most Common Causes

• Tight-fitting shoes – or shoes that squeeze the toes together; applying pressure to the nail area
• Incorrect trimming – nails should be straight across; not rounded
• Fungal infections – cause toenails to thickened or widened
• Acute injury – anything causing repetitive damage; sports, training, etc.

At-home Care

• Soak in warm water – for 15 to 20 minutes up to 4 times a day
• Cotton or floss under the nail – helps to lift; change often to keep clean
• Apply topical antibiotic – after applying cover tender area
• Choose alternate footwear – ensure room for toes to move freely

Prevention

• Trim toenails straight across – not rounding the corners
• Keep the length moderate – too short enhances pressure from shoes
• Wear shoes that fit properly – allow room for toes to move around
• Enjoy a pedicure – let someone take care of your toes for you!

References

Mayo Clinic. (2011). Ingrown toenails – MayoClinic.com.  Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ingrown-toenails/DS00111/METHOD=print

What to do about an ingrown toenail.  Warm soaks and proper nail trimming may do the trick, but sometimes it’s best to see a foot specialist right away.  (2009). Harvard Women’s Health Watch, 16(9), 4-5.

eMedicineHealth. (2012). Ingrown Toenails Treatment, Home Remedies, Prevention.  Retrieved from http://www.emedicinehealth.com/ingrown_toenails/article_em.htm

Related articles

• 10 Ways to Treat Ingrown Toenails (everydayhealth.com)
• Healthy Nails (dailyglow.com)