HOW DOES A PODIATRIST TREAT AN INGROWN TOENAIL?

Footfocuspodiatry November 27, 2023

4 min read

A toenail that has grown is among the most frequent and painful foot conditions we encounter during our time at Foot Focus Podiatry.

While toenails that are ingrown can heal themselves, however, a lot of cases require the assistance of a skilled podiatrist who can treat the issue.

The Nature Of The Problem With Ingrown Toenails

When a nail digs its way into the skin, it develops into an ingrown and may cause a great deal of discomfort.

The pressure of your shoes, fungal infections, and trimming your toenails incorrectly could all result in a swollen toenail.

The best way to relieve discomfort temporarily is by soaking your feet in a solution consisting of salt and lukewarm water. However, this will not address the cause of the problem.

If not treated an ingrown nail that is persistently ingrown can lead to grave health implications and can cause infections that can spread to bone tissue and tissue around the nail.

Our skilled podiatrists in Perth offer a variety of options for treating toenails that are ingrown.

The one that is recommended for you is contingent on the severity and nature of the problem, as well as whether it's an isolated problem or a problem that is recurring.

The 3 Main Ways We Treat An Ingrown Toenail

The nail can be lifted. For nails that are just slightly ingrown, it is possible to gently raise the nail edge, separating it from the skin underneath which will ease the discomfort. We can then put the floss, cotton, or a splint underneath the nail to prevent it from being cut from the skin, so it grows above the skin's edge.Removal of part of the nail. If your ingrown toenail has grown to the point of discomfort, redness as well as pus or redness, then we could opt to remove the ingrown portion of your nail. The procedure could involve the use of a local numbing agent to make your toe numb as it is taken off.Complete extraction of the nail as well as tissue. For most people suffering from an ingrown toenail, it is a single incident and is able to be avoided with regular foot care. However, for some people, an ingrown nail on the same toe could become a frequent, long-lasting issue. In these instances it is possible to recommend not just removing the nail, but also the underlying tissue as well, using an instrument such as a laser or chemical.

Following any of these procedures, you'll need to ensure the health of the affected toe in order to avoid the spread of infection and promote healing.

This could include cleaning the wound and soaking it in Epsom salts and/or antimicrobial soap each day for a few weeks, and applying an antibacterial cream as well as a small bandage.

We also suggest wearing loose-fitting or open-toe shoes to reduce pressure on the toe as it heals.

Call Our Foot And Ankle Specialists To Treat Ingrown Toenails in Perth

If you're experiencing an ingrown nail or have other issues related to your ankles or feet Our skilled and experienced podiatrists are here to help!

While our ankle and foot specialists will look at all possibilities to determine whether a non-surgical approach can be a solution we will be prepared if you need to resolve your problems through surgery that is performed to the highest quality of care.

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