An ingrown toenail happens when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can be very painful and uncomfortable, but help is available. At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, our experienced podiatrists provide relief and treatment for ingrown toenails.Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Early symptoms of an ingrown toenail can include:
- Tenderness and pain along the ingrown edge
- Redness around the nail
- Swelling
- Occasional accumulation of liquid around the nail
While we are more than happy to see you or a loved one for any ingrown toenail, certain symptoms indicate a more serious problem that deserves immediate professional treatment. You should definitely call us if:
- Your ingrown toenail is very painful or sensitive to touch.
- You keep getting ingrown toenails no matter what steps you take to stop them.
- You notice signs of potential infection, such as pus, severe pain, or red streaks radiating from the injury site.
- You have diabetes or poor circulation. These factors can make even minor foot injuries much more difficult and riskier to handle on your own.
Treating Ingrown Toenails
The experienced podiatrists at Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle can create an individualized treatment plan to help you with your ingrown toenail. Treatment options include:
- Cleaning and dressing the affected area
- Using antibiotics to treat infection
- Applying a splint or orthotic device to keep your toe straight and prevent the recurrence of the problem
- Surgically remove the nail or partial nail plate, depending on the severe the ingrown nail is
When an ingrown toenail is mild, it may be treatable at home. However, please keep in mind the above situations for when professional treatment is highly recommended.
Patients without those conditions may try soaking their foot in room-temperature water (adding Epsom salts, if desired) for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times per day. Afterward, gently rub the side of the nail fold to help reduce inflammation, then apply antibacterial ointment and bandage.
Do not attempt to cut a notch in the nail. This does not affect the growth of the nail and can cause further injury. Also, do not place cotton beneath the nail. This provides an additional place for bacteria to grow and can increase infection risk.
Are You Or A Family Member Suffering From Ingrown Toenails In The Caldwell Or Meridian, Idaho Area?
If you're suffering from ingrown toenails you owe it to yourself to speak with our experienced podiatrists as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 208.855.5955 to schedule your appointment. We service all areas surrounding Meridian, Idaho as well as all areas in the Caldwell, Idaho area. We look forward to helping you!
