Ingrown Toenail Relief
Ingrown toenails are very common and occur when the edge of the toenail curves and grows into the skin on the side of your toes instead of growing straight out. This can cause horrible pain, redness, swelling, and even infection if left untreated. Ingrown toenails mainly occur on your big toes, but any toe is susceptible.
Ingrown toenails are a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and pain. At our podiatry clinic, we focus on understanding the common causes and effective treatments to help you find relief.
Common causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and genetic predispositions. Activities that put pressure on the toes, such as running or dancing, can also contribute to this issue.
Fortunately, there are effective and conservative treatments available. For mild cases, our team may recommend soaking the affected foot, proper nail trimming techniques, and wearing more comfortable footwear. If conservative treatments haven’t provided relief from the pain of an ingrown toenail, toenail surgery may be the best option for you. During the procedure, our skilled podiatrist will carefully remove the portion of the toenail that is ingrown, along with any surrounding tissue that may be infected or inflamed. This is typically done under local anaesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the process. We take special care to minimise any discomfort and promote a swift recovery. Post-surgery, we’ll provide you with clear aftercare instructions to help protect your foot and promote healing. Most patients experience significant relief from pain and discomfort following the surgery, allowing you to return to your daily activities with confidence.
Our trusted podiatrist’s priority is to provide personalised care tailored to your needs, ensuring that you’re informed and comfortable throughout the treatment process.
FAQs
What causes ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin. This can be caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight-fitting shoes, injury to the toe, or genetic predisposition to curved toenails.
How can I tell if my toenail is ingrown?
You can tell if your toenail is ingrown if you notice pain, redness, and swelling around the nail edge. In some cases, there may be oozing or a buildup of excess tissue around the nail edge.
What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail?
Symptoms typically include sharp pain along the side of the toenail, swelling, redness, tenderness, and possibly infection, which may manifest as pus or increased pain.
How do you treat an ingrown toenail at home?
At-home treatments include soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water multiple times a day, wearing open-toed shoes or sandals, and using over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s important to avoid digging into the skin. Ingrown toenails are very difficult to manage and usually require a trained podiatrist to fix your toe pain.
When should I see a doctor for an ingrown toenail?
You should see a doctor if you notice signs of infection, if you have diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation.
Can ingrown toenails become infected?
Yes, ingrown toenails can and easily do become infected. This typically occurs when the toe is not looked after properly or mismanaged after treatments or surgeries to fix the issue. An infection may cause increased redness, swelling, warmth, and pus. If you suspect an infection, prompt treatment is important to avoid complications.
What are the best ways to prevent ingrown toenails?
To prevent ingrown toenails, properly trim your nails straight across instead of rounding the edges, wear well-fitting shoes that allow enough space for your toes, and avoid trauma to the toes.
Is surgery necessary for ingrown toenails?
Surgery may be necessary if the ingrown toenail is severe, recurrent, or doesn’t respond to conservative treatments. A podiatrist can perform a simple procedure to remove the portion of the nail causing the issue.
How long does it take for an ingrown toenail to heal?
Healing time can vary, but generally, with proper care and treatment, mild cases can take a few days to a week to improve. Severe cases or infections may take longer and require medical intervention.
Can I get an ingrown toenail from wearing tight shoes?
Yes, wearing tight shoes can contribute to ingrown toenails as they can create pressure on the toes and nails, encouraging the edges of the toenail to grow into the surrounding skin. It’s best to wear shoes that provide adequate space for your toes.