An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis, can happen to anyone. Often the problem is hereditary, but can be the result of improper footwear or improper nail care. Ingrown toenails can even result from harming your toe by dropping something on it or stubbing it on something hard. However the cause, here are some dos and don’ts for treating ingrown toenails.

Most important, if you suspect an infection in your toenail, or if you have a medical condition that can potentially affect your feet (such as diabetes), have the toe inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

If you don’t suspect an infection, try these home remedies:

1. Soak your foot in room-temperature water and tenderly massage the inflamed area of your toe.
2. Use anti-bacterial ointment to prevent infection while the toe heals.
3. Use a gutter-splint – such as floss or a toothpick – to align the nail on the proper path.

Even if you don’t think you have an infected toe, do not attempt to:

1. Cut a notch in the nail or cut the nail in an abnormal way. This will not force the nail to grow as it should.
2. Do not put anything under the nail (such as cotton). Not only does this not relieve the pain, but it will provide a nesting ground for bacteria and infection underneath your nail.
3. Do not rely on over-the-counter medications. These may temporarily relieve pain, but will not cure the underlying cause.

As with all medical conditions, prevention is always preferable to cure. To prevent ingrown toenails, consider the following:

1. Wear correctly fitting shoes. Not too loose, not too tight. Well-fitting shoes will lessen pain on the toes when walking quickly.
2. Keep your nails trimmed in a straight line. Do not cut them too short. A good length is if you can still get your fingernail under the sides and end of the nail but not long enough to rip holes in your socks.