Whether or not you can treat ingrown toenails at home depends on the severity of the condition. If the pain is severe and you’ve noticed complications like pus or infection, you probably need us to step in and treat your toe; if you have diabetes, you definitely should seek our help. However, in many cases home remedies are all you need—or at the very least, they can help you reduce symptoms.
For the discomfort, we may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and antibiotic creams to relieve your toenail pain and stave off infection. You can also use cotton bits or a piece of waxed dental floss the gently raise the nail after a shower or foot soak, encouraging the nail to grow above the skin rather than into it. Also, switch to roomier shoes (or those with open ends) that don’t place pressure on the toes.
If you want more advice or need to schedule an appointment, call Family Foot and Ankle Center at (513) 728-4800 or (859) 282-1572. We are the metro area’s leading experts in dealing with painful, unsightly toenail conditions.
