Home treatment for an ingrown toenail
Try home treatment if you have an ingrown toenail.
- Soak your foot in warm water for about 15 minutes to soften the nail.
- Wedge a small piece of wet cotton under the corner of the nail to cushion the nail and lift it slightly. This keeps it from cutting the skin.
- Repeat daily until the nail has grown out and can be trimmed.
To prevent ingrown nails:
- Cut toenails straight across and leave your nails a little longer at the corners so that the sharp ends don't cut into your skin.
- Check with your health professional before trimming your own toenails if you have been diagnosed with diabetes or peripheral arterial disease.
- Wear roomy, comfortable shoes.
| Author: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA | Last Updated: February 14, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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