Ingrown toenails are a painful, yet common, issue that children with growing feet are faced with. When a toenail grows into the skin of a toe that nail becomes ingrown. This problem is the result of wearing shoes that are either too tight or too narrow. Although ingrown toenails take several weeks to heal, there is a way you can help your child during the healing process. Soaking your child’s foot in warm water mixed with antibacterial soap twice a day can help expedite his recovery. However, if the cuticle begins to swell or ooze pus, antibiotic ointment may be necessary. If both the soaking and ointment don’t help alleviate the pain, a visit to the podiatrist is imperative. The doctor will trim the nail in a way that will allow the irritated tissue to heal easily. After your child fully recovers from his ingrown toenail, it is crucial to take precautions in order to prevent it from happening again. Make sure he wears shoes that fit comfortably and that aren’t too pointed.
Making sure that your children maintain foot health is very important as they grow up. If you have any questions contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
- Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
- Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.