If you have an ingrown nail, you know how it feels-sort of like an elephant stomped on your toe and then a lobster grabbed hold of it-for keeps. The problem occurs when a nail-usually your big toe grows or is pushed into the soft tissue alongside it. People whose toenails are somewhat convex are more susceptible, but anyone can fall victim. Here, we give you a few tips on how to soothe the pain along with preventing the ingrown nail from returning.

Get a wisp of relief: Your mission is to help that embedded toenail grow out over the skin folds at its side. Start by soaking your feet in warm water to soften the nail. Dry carefully, then gently insert a wisp (not a wad) of sterile cotton beneath the burrowing edge of the nail. The cotton will slightly lift the nail so it can grow past the tissue it is digging into. Apply an antiseptic as a safeguard against infection. Change the cotton insert daily until the nail has grown past the trouble spot.

Try an OTC: There are a variety of non-prescription over-the-counter products that may soften the nail and the skin around it, thereby relieving pain.

Let your toes breathe: Simply put, ill-fitting footwear can cause an ingrown nail, especially if your nails tend to curve. That’s why you should avoid pointed or tight shoes that press on toenails. Opt instead for sandals where appropriate, or wide-toed shoes. Likewise, stay away from socks and tights that bind.

Cut nails with precision: Always groom your nails the right way. Do not cut your nails too short, soften them first in warm water to reduce possible splitting, then cut straight across with a substantial, sharp, straight-edged clipper. Never cut a nail in an oval shape so that the leading edge curves down into the skin at the sides. Always leave the outside edges parallel to the skin. And don’t trim the nail any deeper than the tip of the toe, you want it long enough to protect the toe from pressure and friction.

Fix mistakes properly: If you accidentally cut or break a nail too short, carefully smooth it at the edges so that no sharp points are left to penetrate the skin. Do the smoothing with an emery board or a nail file. Don’t be tempted to use scissors,no matter how small they are. There is simply not enough space for you to work them properly, and they often leave a sharp edge.

Beware of infection: If your toe becomes infected, you should definitely see a GP. To reduce inflammation until your appointment, periodically soak your foot in an iodine solution. If you let an ingrown nail become seriously infected you can end up in big trouble! Sometimes a bloody growth, builds up on the side of the nail. This inflamed soft tissue can become quite sensitive when it extends into the nail groove. Moral of the story don’t let it get to that point! Prevention is far better than cure.

We can also take care of our feet by simply reading our tips on Foot Care- home remedies for the most common foot ailments