IN-GROWING TOENAILS

Articles written by
Mr. Harvey Minasian MS(London) FRCS

INFORMATION & ADVICE TO PATIENTS WHO SUFFER WITH “IN-GROWING TOENAILS”

Infection of the nail folds can occur if the nail sides curve inwards & dig into this area, causing damage. Bacteria (germs) then enter into this damaged area & helped by the presence of moisture, cause infection. Carry out the following instructions, as far as possible for you, to minimise this risk.

Keep your feet & toes as clean as possible, for example bathe them twice daily (mornings & before retiring to bed) in lukewarm water to which has been added a little salt or Savlon. Dry your toes thoroughly with a towel & then, if possible, with a hair dryer to ensure the toes & nail folds get really dry.

Keep your feet & toes as dry as possible for as long as possible. Avoid socks (e.g. Nylon) & shoes (e.g. plastic or rubber), which do not allow the feet to “breathe” and therefore cause excessive sweating. At home, if socially convenient, don’t wear shoes or socks, keeping your feet exposed so that they can get “aired” and remain dry.

Ensure your socks & shoes are not tight & do not squeeze & press your toes together. As you can imagine, this will encourage the side of the nail to dig into the nail fold. Most manufactures produce wide-fitting shoes. Sometimes you may have to modify slipper or a shoe by cutting holes & vents in it to wear at home. Your footwear must be comfortable.

If you think an infection is starting in your nail fold, consult your doctor at an early stage as antibiotic treatment with or without a minor procedure can sometimes stop the infection.

You may have been given a powder or a cream to apply to the affected nail fold. Do this after you have bathed the toe & dried it.