Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails may seem like minor problems, yet they can cause excruciating pain and infection. If you need help with an ingrown toenail, don’t wait to call Joseph Hall, DPM. Though you could try treating it at home, he provides customized care that eases your pain faster. You also shouldn’t attempt to self-care if you have diabetes or vascular disease. Schedule an appointment by calling Dr. Joseph Hall, DPM (Foot and Ankle Specialist) at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic in Mill Creek, WA or requesting one online today. 

What causes ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails develop when the side of the nail grows into the skin. Though this problem can affect any toe, it typically appears in the big toe.

You may end up with an ingrown toenail if you:

• Trim your toenail improperly: If you cut the nail too short or make the nail rounded instead of straight, the skin can fold over the nail. As the nail keeps growing, it pushes deeper into the skin.
• Wear tight shoes: Tight shoes and high heels push your toes down, potentially forcing the nail under the skin.
• Have a foot injury: Stubbing your toe, kicking a ball too hard, and other injuries to the big toes increase the risk of an ingrown toenail.
• Have a family history: Genetics determine the shape of your toes and nails. You can inherit a genetic tendency, making you more vulnerable to ingrown toenails.

What are the symptoms of ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails are notorious for causing pain, often more intense than expected from a seemingly small problem. Swelling and redness may also appear, possibly signaling an infection, especially if you have pus or the skin feels warm.

Can I treat ingrown toenails at home?

All foot problems, including an ingrown toenail, need professional medical care in people with diabetes and vascular insufficiencies or if you notice signs of an infection; such as redness and pus. Do not go to a walk in clinic or your primary physician for treatment as they will give you antibiotics to take but this will not get rid of the underlying problem; which is the nail growing into the skin.  

If you don’t have a health condition and the toenail isn’t infected, you can try treating an ingrown toenail at home. You may safely get the nail out from under the skin by soaking it in warm water and massaging the side of the nail.

However, don’t try to cut the nail out. That may make the condition worse and cause an infection.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

Joseph Hall, DPM at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic, may apply an anesthetic and remove the ingrown part of the nail by gently lifting and cutting it out.

If your ingrown toenail becomes a recurring problem, your provider may remove a portion of the nail permanently to stop it from growing.

Don’t hesitate to call the office or connect through online booking if you wonder whether your ingrown toenail needs treatment.