If you are dealing with an ingrown toenail, then you probably understand how painful they can become. There are a number of reasons why an ingrown toenail can occur, and it's important to learn about good care for your toenails to help prevent an ingrown toenail from occurring. At Advanced Foot Care Center in Ridgefield, CT, Dr. Allan Rosenthal treats patients who are unable to manage an ingrown toenail at home. When you have pain, irritation, or you suspect there is an infection, it's time to contact a podiatrist in Ridgefield, CT who can help.

Common Causes of an Ingrown Toenail

Heredity can play a role in your susceptibility to ingrown toenails, but good care of your toenails can help prevent them from occurring. Tight shoes can cause an ingrown toenail, as can rounding off your toenails instead of cutting them straight across. If you have diabetes, you are overweight, or you have arthritis, these are all conditions that can add to your chances of getting an ingrown toenail at some point.

Treatment for Ingrown Toenails in Ridgefield, CT

Good foot hygiene is your first defense for treatment and prevention of ingrown toenails. If you have pain, or the toenail becomes infected, Dr. Rosenthal can prescribe antibiotics to take care of the infection. Laser podiatry treatment can help take care of an ingrown toenail, and soaking your feet daily can ease the pain or irritation. A podiatrist will need to take care of any infection before trying to cut the ingrown toenail, and it can take time for the infection to go away.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

When you go to cut your toenails, don't cut the nails too short. The nails should be cut straight across, so that they are not able to dig into your skin as they start to grow. If you have toenails that curl when they are growing, pay attention if you start to have any pain in the toe. Curling nails are a common cause of an ingrown toenail, and vigilance can help prevent one from occurring. Wear shoes that are comfortable, especially when you are going to be exercising or walking long distances.

Schedule With Your Ridgefield, CT Podiatrist Now

If an ingrown toenail is causing you pain, or you suspect an infection, it's time to contact Advanced Foot Care Center in Ridgefield, CT at (203) 431-0048. Set up an appointment to meet with Dr. Rosenthal, and get your ingrown toenail taken care of.