Prevent your Child from Getting this Painful Foot Problem

Parents can prevent a common childhood foot problem, ingrown toenails, by following some simple recommendations.

Ingrown toenails are one of the most frequent conditions treated in children. Many kids hide their ingrown toenails from their parents, even though the condition can cause significant pain. An ingrown nail can break the skin and lead to dangerous infections.

Tight shoes, tight socks and incorrect nail trimming are the most common causes for this condition. In others, the children may inherit the tendency for nails to curve.

Parents must teach children how to trim their toenails properly. Toenails should be trimmed in a fairly straight line and cut not too short.

Parents must also ensure their children's shoes fit well. Shoe width is more important than length. Make sure that the widest part of the shoe matches the widest part of your child's foot.

If your child develops a painful ingrown toenail, reduce the inflammation by soaking the child's foot in room-temperature water and gently massaging the side of the nail fold.

The only proper way to treat a child's ingrown toenail is with a minor surgical procedure at a doctor's office. Parents should never try to dig the nail out or cut it off. These dangerous "bathroom surgeries" carry a high risk for infection.

For more information on pediatric foot problems such as ingrown toenails, please contact my office at 440-946-5858.