At West Haven Foot and Ankle Center, we see many patients struggling with the pain and discomfort of ingrown toenails. While there can be several contributing factors, improper footwear is a major culprit. Here, we'll explore how your shoes can impact your toes and what you can choose to promote healthy feet and prevent ingrown toenails.

How Improper Footwear Leads to Ingrown Toenails

Our toes need space to wiggle and breathe. When crammed into ill-fitting shoes, they can become squeezed and misaligned. This pressure can cause the edges of your nails to dig into the surrounding skin, leading to the painful condition of an ingrown toenail.

Here's a breakdown of how different shoe issues can contribute:

• Tight Shoes: Shoes that are too narrow or short restrict natural toe movement. This constant pressure can force the nail to grow inwards.

• Pointed Toes: Pointed shoes push your toes together, again increasing the risk of the nail edge embedding in the skin.

• High Heels: High heels shift your weight forward, putting extra pressure on the toes and potentially causing them to curl under, impacting nail growth.

Choosing Footwear for Healthy Feet

The good news is that by prioritizing proper footwear, you can significantly reduce your risk of ingrown toenails. Here's what to look for in your next pair of shoes:

• Spacious Toe Box: Choose shoes with a wide and rounded toe box that allows your toes to spread out comfortably.

• Supportive Fit: Choose shoes that hug your foot comfortably without feeling constricting.

• Breathable Materials: Choose shoes made from natural materials like leather or canvas that allow for ventilation and prevent moisture build-up.

• Lower Heels: Whenever possible, choose shoes with lower heels or flats to distribute weight evenly across your foot.

West Haven Foot and Ankle Center: Your Partner in Foot Health

If you're experiencing an ingrown toenail or have concerns about your footwear choices, our team at West Haven Foot and Ankle Center is here to help. We offer comprehensive foot care services, including treatment for ingrown toenails and guidance on proper shoe selection.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take a step towards healthier, happier feet!