An ingrown toenail is the most common nail complaint in podiatry, and although it may seem like a minor issue, it can cause significant pain and frustration.
When the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, it often leads to redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes infection. Simple activities like walking, exercising, or wearing shoes can quickly become uncomfortable.
At Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist’s offices in Homer Glen and New Lenox, Illinois, we see ingrown toenails every day and understand how disruptive they can be. The good news is that we offer effective treatment options.
Here are five ways podiatric care can help you find lasting relief:
Not all ingrown toenails look or feel the same. Some cause mild irritation, while others lead to severe pain or infection. Our podiatrists, Christopher Vittori, DPM, and Ameet Thakrar, DPM, begin by carefully examining the affected toe to understand the severity of the problem.
This evaluation helps determine the best course of treatment. Mild ingrown toenails often respond to conservative care, while more advanced cases may need a procedural solution. A personalized plan ensures you receive the right level of care without unnecessary treatment.
Improper nail trimming often contributes to ingrown toenails. Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
Our podiatrists safely trim and shape the nail to relieve pressure and allow the skin to heal. They also provide guidance on proper nail care at home, including how trimming straight across can reduce future problems. This simple step often brings fast relief for early-stage ingrown toenails.
When an ingrown toenail becomes infected, symptoms may include pus, warmth, worsening pain, and swelling. Ignoring these signs can allow the infection to spread and delay healing.
We treat infections promptly using appropriate medical care. This may include cleaning the area, removing debris, and prescribing medication if needed. Reducing infection not only eases pain but also prevents further complications.
For recurring or severe ingrown toenails, partial nail removal offers an effective solution. During this procedure, we remove the portion of the nail causing irritation while leaving the rest intact.
Partial nail removal typically takes place in the office using local anesthesia. Many people experience immediate relief once the pressure disappears. This option often prevents ingrown toenails from returning in the same area.
Most treatments allow patients to walk immediately after their appointment. Some mild soreness or drainage may occur for a short time, but following aftercare instructions helps ensure proper healing. This may include keeping the area clean, wearing protective footwear, and attending follow-up visits if recommended.
Some patients have ingrown toenails that keep recurring despite proper care. In these cases, a permanent procedure may provide the best long-term outcome.
This treatment involves removing part of the nail matrix to prevent the problematic edge from regrowing. Recovery is usually straightforward, and most patients return to normal activities quickly. For those who struggle with frequent ingrown toenails, this approach can significantly improve quality of life.
While soaking the foot or wearing roomy shoes may help mild discomfort, home treatment can’t fix more serious ingrown toenails. Attempting to cut or dig out the nail yourself can worsen pain and increase the risk of infection.
Podiatric care ensures safe, sterile treatment and reduces the chance of complications. Early intervention often prevents the need for more extensive procedures later.
Ingrown toenails can affect anyone, but factors that increase the risk include:
Athletes and individuals who spend long hours on their feet may also develop ingrown toenails more readily.
Medical conditions, such as diabetes, or circulation problems make professional care especially important. In these cases, even minor foot issues require prompt attention to avoid serious complications.
With professional evaluation and targeted treatment, relief from ingrown toenails is within reach. Podiatric care focuses on resolving pain, preventing infection, reducing the risk of recurrence, and addressing the problem early to help you stay active and comfortable.
Ingrown toenails don’t have to disrupt your daily life. To arrange an ingrown toenail evaluation with our podiatrists, call Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist, or complete the online booking form.
