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6 Feb 2025, Thu

Diabetes and Ingrown Toenails: Why Extra Care Is Essential

For individuals with diabetes, foot health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. Diabetes affects circulation, nerve function, and the body’s ability to heal, making even minor foot issues, such as ingrown toenails, a serious concern. Without proper care, an ingrown nail can lead to infections, ulcers, and more severe complications.

Understanding the link between diabetes and foot problems, including how to prevent and treat ingrown toenails, can help people with diabetes maintain mobility and avoid long-term health risks. This article explores why extra foot care is necessary for diabetics, how to recognize and treat ingrown toenails, and what steps to take for prevention.

Why People with Diabetes Are More Prone to Foot Problems

Diabetes impacts the body in several ways that increase the risk of foot complications. These include:

1. Poor Circulation

Diabetes can cause reduced blood flow to the extremities, particularly the feet. Poor circulation makes it harder for the body to heal from minor cuts, wounds, or infections, including those caused by ingrown toenails. If left untreated, these wounds can develop into serious infections or ulcers.

2. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)

Many people with diabetes experience peripheral neuropathy, a condition where nerve damage leads to decreased sensation in the feet. This makes it difficult to feel pain, pressure, or injuries, allowing foot problems to go unnoticed until they become severe.

3. Increased Risk of Infection

High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it more difficult to fight infections. When an ingrown toenail becomes infected, the body may struggle to heal the affected area, increasing the risk of serious complications.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can cause pain, redness, swelling, and infection.

Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Several factors can lead to ingrown toenails, including:

  • Improper nail trimming – Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow into the skin.
  • Tight footwear – Shoes that are too tight or narrow put pressure on the toes, forcing nails into the skin.
  • Foot injuries – Stubbing the toe, dropping something on the foot, or repetitive pressure from activities like running can contribute to ingrown nails.
  • Genetics – Some people naturally have curved or thick toenails, making them more prone to ingrown nails.

For individuals with diabetes, the risks associated with ingrown toenails are much higher due to poor circulation and slow healing.

The Dangers of Untreated Ingrown Toenails for Diabetics

For a person without diabetes, an ingrown toenail may be a minor inconvenience that heals with basic care. However, for someone with diabetes, ignoring an ingrown toenail can lead to severe complications, including:

1. Infection and Abscess Formation

When an ingrown toenail pierces the skin, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. In diabetics, infections can spread quickly and lead to abscesses (pus-filled pockets), which require medical intervention.

2. Foot Ulcers

A persistent infection from an ingrown toenail can develop into a foot ulcer—a deep, open wound that is slow to heal due to poor circulation. Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

3. Gangrene and Amputation Risks

If an infection from an untreated ingrown toenail spreads and restricts blood flow, tissue death (gangrene) can occur. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading further.

Because of these risks, it’s essential for diabetics to take proactive steps to prevent and treat ingrown toenails before they become serious.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails for Diabetics

Since prevention is the best approach, here are some essential foot care tips for diabetics:

1. Trim Toenails Properly

  • Cut toenails straight across and avoid rounding the edges.
  • Use sanitized nail clippers to prevent infections.
  • Avoid cutting nails too short, as this increases the risk of ingrown toenails.

2. Choose the Right Footwear

  • Wear shoes that provide ample space for the toes to move freely.
  • Avoid high heels, narrow shoes, or tight socks that put pressure on the toenails.
  • Opt for diabetic-friendly shoes with soft, cushioned soles.

3. Inspect Feet Daily

  • Check feet every day for signs of redness, swelling, or cuts.
  • Use a mirror to examine hard-to-see areas.
  • If mobility is limited, ask a caregiver or family member to help inspect your feet.

4. Keep Feet Clean and Dry

  • Wash feet daily with warm water and mild soap.
  • Dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.
  • Apply a diabetic-friendly moisturizer to prevent skin cracking (but avoid applying it between the toes).

5. See a Chiropodist for Regular Foot Care

  • Schedule regular visits with a chiropodist or foot specialist to monitor foot health.
  • Never attempt to remove an ingrown toenail at home—professional treatment is essential.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails in Diabetics

If an ingrown toenail develops, seeking professional care is the safest option for diabetics. A chiropodist or foot specialist may recommend one of the following treatments:

1. Conservative Treatment

For mild cases, a chiropodist may:

  • Gently lift the nail and place a small cotton piece or brace to guide proper nail growth.
  • Prescribe antibiotic ointments if there is a minor infection.
  • Recommend soaking the foot in warm, soapy water to reduce inflammation.

2. Partial or Full Nail Removal

For moderate to severe ingrown toenails, a minor procedure may be necessary. The chiropodist may:

  • Remove part of the affected nail under local anesthesia.
  • Apply a chemical solution to prevent regrowth if the issue is recurrent.

3. Surgical Intervention for Chronic Cases

If ingrown toenails keep coming back, a more permanent surgical procedure might be needed. This procedure involves reshaping or partially removing the nail root to prevent further issues.

When to See a Chiropodist

Diabetics should never ignore signs of an ingrown toenail, especially if they notice:

  • Persistent pain and swelling.
  • Redness or warmth around the toenail.
  • Pus or drainage, indicating infection.
  • A sore or wound that doesn’t heal within a few days.

Early intervention by a foot specialist can prevent complications and ensure safe, effective treatment.

For individuals with diabetes, foot health should never be taken lightly. Ingrown toenails may seem like a minor issue, but for diabetics, they can lead to serious complications, including infections, ulcers, and even amputation. That’s why proper foot care, early prevention, and seeking professional help when needed are critical steps in maintaining overall well-being.

If you or a loved one has diabetes and is experiencing toenail problems, visit website for more information on foot care services and expert advice from chiropodists. By taking proactive steps, you can keep your feet healthy, mobile, and free from complications.