Shoes for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a common source of irritation. This painful condition usually involves the inner side of the “big” toe, but any toe can be affected. An ingrown toenail forms as the result of the steady squeezing together of the toes. The second toe presses against the inner nail edge of the big toe, forcing the nail to grow inward into the skin. Improper trimming of the nails can also cause this problem. Symptoms include tenderness, inflammation, and swelling. Heredity plays an important role for many who suffer from this problem. Here are some tips for dealing with this painful problem and for selecting the best shoes for ingrown toenails.

1. Proper shoes and fit are important. The best shoes for ingrown toenails allow extra room in the toe area, from ½ - ¾ inches of space from the tip of your toes to the end of the shoes. Wearing shoes that are too short, too narrow, or too pointed can squeeze toes and create pressure that causes the nail to grow inward into the skin. Shoes for ingrown toenails should have a roomy toe area with sufficient length, width, and shape. Make sure that the shape of your shoes matches the shape of your feet. The New Balance shoes recommended below are good ingrown toenail shoes because they are built with a deeper, fuller forefoot to provide “wiggle room” for toes.

2. Trimming toenails correctly is important. Any of the toes are vulnerable, so when trimming toenails, remember to clip straight across. Avoid trimming the corner of the nail too deeply.

3. Socks must fit properly, too. Socks should supply ample room and not restrict the toes.

4. If you have diabetes, consult a physician about your ingrown toenail because of the greater risk of complications.