How Podiatrists Treat Painful Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition affecting teens and adults. They occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, typically on one or both sides of the big toe. This can lead to discomfort, redness, and swelling, making even simple activities like walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. While not life-threatening, untreated ingrown toenails can worsen over time and may require medical attention.

Causes and Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. One frequent cause is improper nail trimming, particularly cutting nails too short or rounding the corners. Tight or ill-fitting shoes that place pressure on the toes can also increase the likelihood of this condition. Other causes include naturally curved toenails, toe injuries like stubbing, or trauma from dropping heavy objects.

Common symptoms include noticeable redness and swelling around the affected nail, pain, and tenderness, particularly when applying pressure. More advanced cases may involve an infection, resulting in pus or fluid discharge. If you notice these signs, consultation with a podiatrist may be necessary to avoid complications.

How Podiatrists Help

A podiatrist is a specialist trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the feet, including ingrown toenails. When you visit a podiatrist, they will assess the severity of your toenail, asking about your symptoms and medical history. A visual examination of the toe helps determine the extent of the condition, from mild irritation to more complex infections. Podiatrists aim to provide adequate care by selecting a treatment method tailored to your situation.

Non-surgical Approaches

For mild cases, podiatrists often recommend non-surgical solutions. These may include soaking the foot in warm water to help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort. Another approach involves lifting the affected nail’s edge and placing a small piece of sterile material underneath to guide the nail to grow above the skin. Podiatrists may gently trim the ingrown portion of the nail under hygienic and safe conditions. This prevents further irritation and promotes proper nail growth. These treatments are typically quick, minimally invasive, and effective for early-stage ingrowns.

Surgical Treatments

A podiatrist may suggest surgical intervention if non-surgical options are insufficient or the ingrown section is severe. One common procedure involves partial nail removal, where only the ingrown section is extracted. This technique provides long-term relief while allowing the rest of the nail to grow normally.

For recurring or chronic ingrown toenails, the podiatrist might perform a procedure to remove a portion of the nail and prevent it from growing back along the sides. This is achieved by applying a chemical or using a laser to target the base of the nail. Surgical options are generally outpatient procedures with minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume daily activities shortly after treatment.

Prevention Strategies

Prevention is key when it comes to minimizing the risk of ingrown toenails. One effective strategy is to trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges that can lead to improper growth. Also, avoid cutting nails too short, which can lead to the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. Wearing shoes that provide room for your toes reduces pressure and irritation. 

Seek Professional Help for Better Foot Health

While common, toenails that have become ingrown can become increasingly painful and complex if left untreated. From initial discomfort to more advanced cases involving infection, podiatrists provide professional, reliable care to resolve the condition efficiently. If you’re experiencing symptoms of an ingrown toenail, consult with a qualified podiatrist to make sure you receive proper treatment and prevention.