As summer comes to an end and autumn approaches, it is a good time to give your feet some extra attention. After months of wearing sandals, open shoes and spending more time outdoors, your feet may have experienced changes that can become more noticeable as you return to enclosed footwear.
One common foot problem that can cause discomfort is an ingrown toenail. If you are experiencing pain, tenderness or redness around a toenail, it may be time to consider professional Widnes chiropody and footcare.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. It most commonly affects the big toe and can cause pain, redness, swelling and tenderness.
In some cases, the area can become infected, particularly if the skin becomes broken. Wearing tight-fitting shoes can make symptoms worse by putting additional pressure on the affected toe.
Why Can Autumn Make Foot Problems More Noticeable?
As the weather becomes cooler, many people swap sandals and open footwear for socks, boots and enclosed shoes. While keeping your feet warm is important, footwear that is too narrow or tight around the toes can place pressure on the toenails.
If you already have a developing ingrown toenail, this additional pressure can make it increasingly uncomfortable.
Autumn is therefore an ideal time to check your feet and address any problems before they become more difficult to manage.
Common Signs of an Ingrown Toenail
You may have an ingrown toenail if you notice:
- Pain or tenderness around the toenail
- Redness around the edge of the nail
- Swelling of the surrounding skin
- Increased sensitivity when wearing shoes
- The skin becoming sore or irritated
- Discharge or signs of infection
If you notice persistent discomfort or your symptoms are getting worse, professional Widnes podiatry or Widnes footcare may be appropriate.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
There are several factors that can contribute to ingrown toenails. These can include cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners, wearing footwear that puts pressure on the toes, repeated pressure or trauma to the nail, and naturally curved toenails.
Trying to cut away the affected part of the nail yourself can sometimes make the problem worse. If you are unsure how to manage an uncomfortable toenail, seeking professional advice can help.
Don’t Ignore Painful Toenails
It can be tempting to ignore a sore toenail, particularly if the discomfort seems minor. However, an ingrown toenail can become increasingly painful and may interfere with walking, exercise and everyday activities.
Getting your feet checked early can help you understand what is causing the problem and what options may be available to manage it.
At Widnes Chiropody by Arco Healthcare Clinic, our professional footcare services are designed to help keep your feet comfortable and healthy throughout the changing seasons.
Prepare Your Feet for Autumn
As you start wearing boots and closed shoes again, take a few minutes to look after your feet. Choose footwear with enough room around the toes, keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid cutting your toenails excessively short.
If you have a painful or troublesome toenail, don’t wait for the problem to become more uncomfortable.
Book Your Widnes Chiropody Appointment
Autumn is a great time to make your foot health a priority. If you are experiencing an ingrown toenail or simply need professional footcare, Arco Healthcare Clinic can provide professional Widnes chiropody, Widnes podiatry and Widnes footcare.
If your feet need some attention before autumn arrives, contact Arco Healthcare Clinic today to arrange an appointment.
For further information contact our experienced reception team or alternatively click here to book your appointment. To use your healthcare policy and claim back treatment cost check the podiatrist register with the following link.