Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail can cause pain that makes it hard to walk. But there’s no need to suffer. Amir Azer, DPM, and the team at Total Foot and Ankle Care in Hurst and Dallas, Texas, can provide the care you need for your ingrown toenail, easing your pain and preventing any further problems. For professional ingrown toenail care from the experts, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail is a foot problem that develops when your toenail grows into the skin at the side of the nail bed instead of straight. An ingrown toenail may affect any toe, but it’s more common in the big toe. 

Initially, your ingrown toenail causes the skin to swell and become tender. Over time, the injury may lead to an infection, causing the toe to turn red and painful. You may also notice drainage from the toe. 

Ingrown toenails are common and not usually a major health concern. 

What causes an ingrown toenail?

In most people, ingrown toenails develop because of how they trim their nails. If you cut your toenails too short or round the edges, the nail may grow into the skin. 

Wearing tight shoes or an injury to the toe may also cause an ingrown toenail. Some people are more prone to the common foot condition because of the structure of their foot or toes. For example, some people have fleshy toes in which the skin grows around the toenail.

Should I see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail?

You need podiatry care for an ingrown toenail if it fails to improve within a few days of at-home care or if you have a personal history of diabetes, nerve damage, or poor circulation. The team at Total Foot and Ankle Care also recommends you come in for care if you suspect you have a toenail infection.

During the consultation, your podiatrist reviews your symptoms and medical history and examines your toes and feet. If you have drainage from your ingrown toenail, they may take a sample and send it to the lab to determine the type of infection you have.

The team may also take X-rays to confirm or rule out any other foot problems. 

What are the treatments for an ingrown toenail?

The Total Foot and Ankle Care team takes a conservative approach to foot and ankle care. Initially, they give you instructions on how to care for your ingrown toenail at home to encourage normal growth and manage any infections.

Your ingrown toenail treatment plan may include:

• Daily soaking of your toe
• Keeping the toe dry
• Wearing roomy shoes
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Medication to treat an infection

If your ingrown toenail fails to improve with conservative care or is a recurring problem, the team at Total Foot and Ankle Care may recommend removing some or all of the toenail.

For help with an ingrown toenail, call Total Foot and Ankle Care or book an appointment online today.