You wince as you accidentally bump your toe, sending a sharp jolt of pain through your foot. Upon closer inspection, you notice the skin around your toenail is red, swollen, and tender. You may be dealing with an ingrown toenail, a common condition that occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. While proper at-home care can help in mild cases, there are times when it's best to seek professional treatment from a skilled podiatrist.
The experienced podiatrists at Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers have helped countless patients find relief from painful ingrown toenails. We understand the discomfort and frustration of this condition, so we're committed to providing prompt, effective treatment tailored to your unique needs. Learn more about the warning signs of an infected ingrown toenail and when to schedule an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist.
Signs of an Infected Ingrown Toenail
While you can manage some ingrown toenails with self-care measures at home, it's crucial to be aware of the signs of infection. If left untreated, an infected ingrown toenail can lead to serious complications. Here are some key warning signs to watch out for:
- Increasing pain and tenderness. If the pain and tenderness around your toenail worsen despite home treatment, you may have an infection.
- Redness and swelling. As the infection progresses, the skin around your toenail becomes increasingly red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
- Discharge. If you see pus or other drainage from the affected area, it's a clear sign of infection requiring professional treatment.
- Fever and chills. An infected ingrown toenail sometimes causes fever, chills, and body aches.
- Difficulty walking. If the pain from your ingrown toenail is severe enough to interfere with your ability to walk or wear shoes comfortably, it's time to see a podiatrist.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with a foot care clinic. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of avoiding complications and finding relief from your pain.
How a Podiatrist Can Help With Ingrown Toenails
When you visit a podiatry practice for an ingrown toenail, your foot doctor will start by examining the affected toe and assessing the severity of your condition. They may also take X-rays to check for any underlying bone abnormalities contributing to the problem.
Based on their assessment, your podiatrist will recommend treatment tailored to your specific needs. In mild cases, they may prescribe oral antibiotics to clear up an infection and advise you on proper self-care techniques to prevent recurring problems.
If your ingrown toenail is more severe or has become a chronic issue, your foot and ankle doctor may recommend a minor in-office procedure to remove the affected portion of the nail. This can typically be done using local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
In some cases, your podiatrist may also recommend a matricectomy, a procedure that involves removing the portion of the nail bed responsible for producing the ingrown edge of the nail. This can help prevent future ingrown toenails and provide long-lasting relief from your symptoms.
Treatment Methods for Ingrown Toenails
Depending on the severity of your ingrown toenail and the presence of infection, your podiatrist may recommend one or more of the following treatment methods:
Home Management
If you have a mild ingrown toenail with no signs of infection, you may find relief from home care, such as:
- Foot soaks. Soak the affected foot in warm water several times a day to help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
- Massage. Gently massage the skin around the nail to help encourage proper nail growth and reduce discomfort.
- Topical medication. Apply antibiotic ointment to the affected area to help prevent infection and promote healing.
- Pain medication. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Footwear changes. Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that provide ample room for your toes to prevent further irritation. Avoid tight-fitting socks and hosiery that can put additional pressure on the toes and exacerbate the condition.
- Proper nail trimming. Carefully trim the toenail straight across and avoid rounding the corners to prevent the nail from growing into the skin.
Conservative Treatment
For mild to moderate ingrown toenails, your foot doctor may suggest conservative treatment in the office:
- Cotton or dental floss placed under the ingrown edge of the nail helps separate the nail from the skin and encourages proper growth.
- Splints and/or taping of the affected area can relieve pain and correct improper nail growth.
- Toe protectors or toe sleeves provide a barrier between the ingrown toenail and the surrounding skin, reducing friction and discomfort.
Surgical Treatment
If your ingrown toenail is more severe or has become infected, your podiatrist may recommend a surgical procedure. This can typically be done in the office using local anesthesia to numb the affected toe. Surgical options include:
- Partial nail removal. The podiatrist removes the ingrown portion of the nail using specialized tools and techniques.
- Matricectomy. The podiatrist removes the portion of the nail bed responsible for producing the ingrown edge of the nail.
Your podiatrist will work with you to determine the best treatment approach for your situation based on the severity of your condition. They’ll also consider your overall health and personal preferences.
The Benefits of Seeing a Podiatrist for Ingrown Toenail Treatment
While it may be tempting to try to treat an ingrown toenail on your own, there are several key benefits to seeking professional care from a podiatrist:
- Expertise and experience. Podiatrists are trained specialists with the knowledge and skills to properly diagnose and treat ingrown toenails and other foot and ankle conditions.
- Reduced risk of complications. You can reduce your risk of developing serious complications like bone infections or sepsis by seeking prompt treatment from a foot care clinic.
- Faster recovery. With professional treatment, you can often find relief from your symptoms more quickly and get back to your normal activities sooner.
- Personalized care. Your podiatrist will take the time to understand your unique needs and develop a treatment plan tailored to your situation.
At Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers, we understand the impact an ingrown toenail can have on your daily life. That's why we're dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to help you find relief from your foot pain and get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
How Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers Can Help
If you have an ingrown toenail that does not respond to home treatment or shows signs of infection, don't wait to seek professional care. The experienced podiatrists at Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers are here to help.
We offer convenient locations throughout the area, making it easy to access the expert care you need. Our state-of-the-art facilities use the latest technology and tools to ensure you receive the highest quality treatment for your ingrown toenail.
Whether you're dealing with a mild case or a more severe infection, our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. We'll take the time to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide you with the education and resources you need to prevent future ingrown toenails and keep your feet healthy.