Ingrown toenails can be painful and lead to discomfort and infection. This condition occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness. At Illinois Podiatry Specialists, our skilled team offers effective treatments to address ingrown toenails, providing relief and preventing further complications.
The Condition
Ingrown toenails are a common condition in which the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of growing straight. This can lead to pain, redness, swelling, and even infection. Ingrown toenails typically occur in the big toe but can affect any toe. They can be caused by various factors, such as improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, trauma, or genetic predisposition. Illinois Podiatry Specialists specializes in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails, providing effective solutions to alleviate pain, promote healing, and prevent recurrence.
The Symptoms:
- Pain or tenderness along the sides of the toenail
- Redness and swelling around the affected area
- Sensitivity to touch or pressure
- Development of a small, painful bump or fluid-filled blister
- Infection, leading to pus or drainage
- Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably
Possible Causes:
- Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can cause the nail to grow into the surrounding skin.
- Tight-Fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes that crowd the toes can exert pressure on the nails, leading to ingrown toenails.
- Injury or Trauma: Stubbing the toe or other trauma can cause the nail to grow irregularly and potentially become ingrown.
- Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition that makes them more prone to developing ingrown toenails.
- Abnormal Nail Shape or Structure: Certain conditions, such as curved or thickened nails, can increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Inadequate foot hygiene, including not keeping the feet clean and dry, can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.
Treatment Options:
- Conservative Measures: Soaking the foot in warm water containing Epsom salts or mild antiseptic solution can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief. Gently lifting the ingrown edge of the nail using a clean instrument and placing a small piece of sterile cotton or dental floss under the nail can help guide it to grow properly.
- Oral Antibiotics: In cases where the ingrown toenail has become infected, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the underlying infection and prevent its spread. Antibiotics help to eliminate bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of the affected area.
- Partial Nail Removal: Partial nail removal, also known as partial nail avulsion, is a common procedure for treating ingrown toenails. It involves the removal of the ingrown portion of the nail while preserving the healthy portion. This allows the nail to regrow properly without causing further discomfort or ingrowth.
- Total Nail Removal: In severe or recurrent cases of ingrown toenails, total nail removal may be recommended. This procedure involves completely removing the affected toenail, including the nail matrix responsible for nail growth. Total nail removal helps address the underlying cause of the ingrown toenail and prevents future occurrences.
At Illinois Podiatry Specialists, we conduct thorough evaluations to identify the root cause of ingrown toenails. Through a comprehensive assessment, including a review of your medical history and examination of your feet, we develop a treatment plan for your needs. Our goal is to alleviate your discomfort, promote healing, and prevent the recurrence of ingrown toenails.
Schedule Your Podiatry Consultation
Illinois Podiatry Specialists is staffed by board-certified foot and ankle specialists committed to providing exceptional care for ingrown toenails. Our team offers personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s unique needs and goals. By scheduling a consultation with our experts, you can benefit from their extensive knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails.
Contact Illinois Podiatry Specialists Today
Illinois Podiatry Specialists Hinsdale
950 N York Rd, Suite 105
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Illinois Podiatry Specialists Glendale Heights
701 Winthrop Ave Floor, Ste. 101
Glendale Heights, IL 60139
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