4 Ways to Treat Ingrown Toenails for Seniors

As you get older, your nails naturally undergo some changes. They might become thicker, more brittle, or harder to trim, which increases your risk of developing an ingrown toenail. For seniors, what starts as a minor pinch can quickly become a concern due to slower healing times or circulation issues. If you have noticed redness, swelling, or pain along the edge of your nail, it is time to act and come visit us at Goldsmith Podiatry.

Here are 4 effective ways to treat and manage ingrown toenails to keep your feet healthy and mobile.

1. Proper Trimming and Buffing Techniques

As you age, the way you cut your nails becomes even more important. Many people make the mistake of rounding the corners of their toenails to follow the shape of the toe. However, this encourages the nail to grow into the skin.

Always trim your nails straight across. If the corners feel sharp, use an emery board to gently smooth the edges rather than digging in with clippers. Keeping the nails at a moderate length prevents them from being pushed into the flesh by your shoes.

2. Choose Roomy Shoes

Your shoes play a huge role in both the cause and the cure of ingrown nails. If your shoes are too tight or narrow, they squeeze your toes together, thus forcing the nail into the surrounding skin.

For seniors, it’s important to wear shoes that offer plenty of wiggle room. Switching to open-toed sandals or supportive slippers while your nail is healing can provide immediate relief.

3. Use Antibiotic Ointment and Bandaging

To prevent a minor irritation from turning into a major infection, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the affected area. This keeps the skin soft and creates a barrier against bacteria.

Cover the toe with a clean bandage to protect it from friction inside your shoes. If you have diabetes or poor circulation, you should be extra vigilant; check your toes daily for any signs of increased redness, warmth, or drainage, which could indicate a need for professional help.

4. Seek Professional Podiatric Care

If your ingrown toenail is persistent, extremely painful, or showing signs of infection, the best course of action is to see a podiatrist. For many seniors, a simple in-office procedure can provide permanent relief.

A podiatrist can safely remove the offending portion of the nail and, if necessary, apply a chemical treatment to prevent that specific edge from ever growing back. This is a quick, routine process that can save you months of discomfort and prevent more serious complications down the road.

If you’re looking for more foot care tips, give us a call at (212) 877-1002 so Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina T. Ruff at Goldsmith Podiatry can help guide you in the right direction.