Ingrown Toenail Relief: Don’t Let Pain Hold You Back
Bridgewater Foot Doctor for Ingrown Nails – From Conservative Care to Expert Treatment
Suffering from Ingrown Toenail Pain? You're in the Right Place
Understanding Ingrown Toenails: A Common Foot Concern
An ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the skin surrounding it, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and potentially infection. While ingrown nails most commonly affect the big toe, they can occur on any toe.
Several factors can contribute to ingrown toenails, including improper trimming techniques, tight footwear, injury, or hereditary predispositions. Individuals with curved or thick nails may be more susceptible to this condition. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications, including infections.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails
- Improper trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can lead to ingrowth.
- Tight footwear: Shoes that pinch or compress the toes can increase pressure on the nail.
- Injury: Trauma to the toe can cause the nail to grow improperly.
- Hereditary factors: Some individuals may have naturally curved or thick nails that predispose them to ingrown nails.
If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications, including infections.
Don’t attempt to remove the ingrown toenail yourself; doing so can increase the risk of infection and possible loss of the nail! Seek an appropriate evaluation and address the situation before it worsens.
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Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails
Explore our comprehensive solutions designed to relieve pain and promote healing for ingrown toenails, ensuring you can return to your daily activities comfortably.
Initial Care: Start with the Basics
Soak the affected foot in warm water with Epsom salts for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce pain and inflammation. Trim toenails straight across without rounding the corners. If you have diabetes or poor circulation, visit us at PS Foot and Ankle for safe nail trimming to avoid complications.
Pain Relief and Footwear Tips
Wearing open-toed shoes or sandals can alleviate pressure on the affected area. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help, but if inflammation persists, professional treatment may be necessary.
Surgical Solutions: When Necessary
If the nail is infected or causing significant pain, an appointment at PS Foot and Ankle may be needed to remove part or all of the nail under local anesthesia. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, redness, swelling, or systemic symptoms like fever or nausea.
Our Bridgewater NJ Foot Specialist
Sanjna Sanghvi, DPM, AACFAS, DABPM
Board Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon Bridgewater, NJ Podiatrist
Can’t recommend Dr. Sanghvi enough! She is very knowledgeable, and takes the time to make sure you understand everything about your treatment. Very nice and professional staff also!
Frequently Asked Questions
Common signs include pain along one side of the toe, redness and swelling around the nail edge, and drainage of pus if an infection is present.
To prevent ingrown toenails, trim your toenails straight across without tapering the corners and avoid tight-fitting shoes that put pressure on your toes.
You should see a doctor if your ingrown toenail is painful, shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus), or if you have underlying conditions like diabetes that could complicate healing.
Home remedies include soaking your foot in warm water with Epsom salts and applying antibiotic ointment after soaking. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seek professional care.
During surgery, the doctor will numb your toe and may remove part or all of the affected nail. They may also treat the nail bed to prevent regrowth of the ingrown portion.
Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the condition and treatment method used. Most people can return to normal activities within a few days after minor procedures but should follow their doctor’s advice regarding care post-treatment.
Take the First Step Towards Comfortable Feet
Don't let ingrown toenail pain hold you back. Take the first step towards relief and regain your comfort with our expert care.
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