Ingrown toenails can be stubborn and painful and keep coming back, no matter how carefully you trim your nails. The Oregon Institute of Foot Care, serving patients in Lake Oswego, Portland, and West Linn, offers expert care and ingrown toenail removal while helping patients understand why these toenails return and how to prevent them from becoming a chronic issue.
Understanding Why Ingrown Toenails Return
An ingrown toenail happens when the nail edge grows into the skin, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. While one episode is common, recurrent ingrown toenails often have deeper causes that keep them returning. These causes usually include:
- Improper trimming: Cutting too short or curving the edges encourages the nail to pierce the skin
- Tight shoes: Narrow or snug footwear places pressure on the nail and surrounding tissue
- Inherited nail shape: Naturally curved or thick nails can grow inward more easily
- Injuries: Stubbing your toe or repeated stress from activities like running can trigger problems
- Underlying health conditions: Issues like fungal infections or poor circulation may also increase the risk
Knowing these causes of ingrown toenails can help you identify patterns in your foot health and take steps to reduce recurrence.
Prevention Strategies That Really Work
Breaking the cycle of repeating ingrown toenails takes consistent habits and smart toenail care tips. At the Oregon Institute of Foot Care, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Tyler Manson encourages patients to be proactive with these strategies:
- Cut nails straight across. Avoid trimming them too short or rounding corners, as this reduces the chance of the nail digging into the skin.
- Wear shoes with room. Footwear that gives your toes space helps ease pressure and prevents the skin from folding over the nail.
- Practice daily foot hygiene. Wash and dry feet carefully to lower irritation and keep infections at bay.
- Protect toes from injury. If you’re active in sports, construction, or other high-impact activities, choose footwear that shields your toes from trauma.
- Moisturize nails and skin. Dry skin around the toes can make the area more prone to irritation, so keeping it supple helps.
- See a podiatrist when needed. If your nail shape or medical history makes you prone to problems, professional care may include minor procedures designed to prevent future issues.
These simple steps can significantly reduce the chance of recurrence. For more guidance on preventing ingrown toenails, book a consultation with an experienced podiatrist like Dr. Manson.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you’re dealing with frequent pain, swelling, or infections, it’s time to see a foot doctor for ingrown nails. Early treatment not only relieves discomfort but also prevents complications. For residents in Portland, Lake Oswego, and West Linn, the Oregon Institute of Foot Care provides expert evaluation and lasting solutions for stubborn ingrown toenails.
Why Choose the Oregon Institute of Foot Care?
Dr. Tyler Manson brings advanced podiatric training and years of experience treating complex nail conditions, making him a reliable resource for patients across the Portland area. His approach combines effective in-office procedures with a focus on long-term prevention, so patients don’t just get temporary relief but real strategies to reduce recurrence.
His skilled medical team is known for their attentive care and a patient-first approach. Together, they provide personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of recurrent ingrown toenails and help you maintain healthy feet for the long run.
Schedule Your Consultation
Don’t let ingrown toenails keep interrupting your life. Whether you’re in Portland, Lake Oswego, or West Linn, the Oregon Institute of Foot Care offers expert guidance and effective treatment options.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tyler Manson today. Contact our office to book an appointment.