Don’t Suffer from Painful Ingrown Toenails
At this time of year, we often see patients limping into our office with toe pain. Transitioning from sandals to closed shoes can pinch those toes and caused an ingrown toenail.
An ingrown nail can be very painful. Often this condition occurs when the toenail is not trimmed correctly. Instead of cutting the nail straight across, if the corners are rounded they will cut into the skin and tissue of the toe. Ingrown toenails may also be caused by trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on the foot.
The area will look red and swollen and will be very tender. You may even see signs of infection.
Treating an Ingrown Toenail
If you suspect that you have an ingrown toenail, please come to see us right away – especially if it looks infected.
Before your appointment, sooth your toe by soaking it in warm salty or soapy water. Dry carefully, apply an antibiotic ointment and bandage it for protection.
For complete healing, we will perform a simple surgery right in our office to remove the portion of the nail that has grown into the toe. To prevent that portion from growing back and becoming a problem again, we simply apply medicine to the nail root. Oral medication will clear up any infection.
How To Prevent Ingrown Toenails
Wear well-fitting shoes with lots of wiggle-room in the toe box. Don’t put excessive pressure on the nails by wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow.
For an at-home pedicure, be sure to cut the nails straight across. Never round the corners.
For work or leisure activities, always wear the right protective footwear.
Patients with diabetes must always take extra special care of toes and feet. Check your feet and toenails every day and contact us quickly if you notice any type of damage. When you have diabetes, even a minor problem like an ingrown toenail can quickly escalate into a serious problem like an ulcer.
If you have problems trimming your nails, just let us know – we are here to help!
We Can Help Relieve the Pain of Ingrown Toenails
The foot specialists at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center have extensive experience in treating all aspects of foot problems. Our team of doctors is dedicated to serving you with all of the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies. Many treatments and surgeries can be handled right in our offices. Please call us at (860) 741-3041 to make an appointment in one of our offices conveniently located in Enfield, Windsor and South Windsor, CT.