3 Questions to Ask Your Podiatrist About Ingrown Toenail 

Ingrown toenails are nails that have grown under the soft skin of the toe around the nailbed. This can cause swelling, redness, and pain. When left untreated, ingrown toenails can sometimes lead to infection. While an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe, they are most common on the big toes of the feet. There are several factors that could increase your chances of developing ingrown toenails. People who have sustained an injury to their toenails or who wear shoes that crowd their feet together may be more susceptible to ingrown nails. You can also develop an ingrown toenail if you have cut your nails too short or if you have curved toenails as a result of genetics. Patients with diabetes or circulatory problems may be at a greater risk of developing an infection or other complications as a result of an ingrown toenail.

Treatment for your ingrown toenail will depend upon the seriousness of your condition. Once your podiatrist examines your toes, they can provide an appropriate diagnosis and fast, effective treatment. Lifting the ingrown edge of the nail and using a specific material to separate the nail from the skin of the toe can help the nail grow normally above the skin. You may be required to replace the separating material at home and soak your toe to keep the skin soft and prevent infection. Severe ingrown toenails may require the removal of part or all of the nails under a local anesthetic. For patients who have developed severely ingrown nails repeatedly on the same toe, removal of the nail and nailbed tissue may be necessary. This removal can be achieved using a laser or targeted chemicals to prevent the ingrowing portion of the nail from growing in the future.

By practicing appropriate foot hygiene and ensuring you wear comfortable well-fitting shoes, you can decrease the likelihood that you will suffer ingrown toenails in the future. You should make sure to trim your toenails carefully; keeping them cut straight across and at a moderate length will help protect your toes from ingrown nails. Don’t try to trim your toenails to conform to the shape of your toe and do not trim them too short because the pressure from your shoes can cause your nails to grow into your skin. You should also wear appropriate footwear that fits properly. If you participate in activities at work or with friends that put you at a higher risk of a foot injury, wearing protective footwear can keep your toes safe. If you have diabetes or other health conditions that can negatively impact the health of your feet, be sure to check your feet regularly and schedule check-ups with your podiatrist.

If you live in Tustin, CA area and are looking for an experienced podiatrist who can treat your ingrown toenails, contact Tustin Podiatry Clinic to schedule a consultation. We serve patients from Tustin CA, Irvine CA, Garden Grove CA, Orange CA, Anaheim CA, Costa Mesa CA, and Lake Forest CA.