Treating Ingrown Toenails

Overview

Ingrown toenails are the result of the nail edge embedding itself into the skin. Measures everyone can use to avoid ingrown toenails include:

  • Keep the toenails clean. Use a brush, forward and backward, to keep the cuticle back and free of irritation.
  • Always trim toenails straight across. This helps keep the leading edge of the nail from penetrating the skin.
  • Wear shoes that are the proper width and length. Excessive shoe pressure tends to push the adjacent skin toward the nail, making ingrown nail problems more frequent.

Treatment Of Ingrown Nails

If an ingrown nail is developing, self-treatment should consist of soaking the affected toe in warm water, packing cotton into the groove between the nail and flesh in an attempt to prevent the nail edge from piercing the skin, and avoiding tight shoes or stockings. If self-treatment provides only temporary relief, and ingrown nails are a recurring problem or infection develops, the ingrowing border of the nail should be permanently removed by the foot specialists at A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center. This is a minor procedure that is usually performed in one of our four offices.

An acute ingrown nail is accompanied by pain, swelling, redness, and infection. Should you find that you have an acute ingrown nail, contact our podiatrists immediately for recommended treatment options. This may include antibiotics or removal of the offending nail border.

We understand the concern of patients who suffer from the pain, cost, and disability associated with ingrown nails. Our foot specialists are trained to treat ingrown nails efficiently with minimal pain and disability.

ASA Treatment Facilities

The physicians and staff of the A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Centers maintain two complete podiatric clinical facilities, and provide 24-hour emergency service. We participate in most health plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, and Medicaid. We complete and file all necessary insurance forms, making every effort to assure you of maximum benefits with minimum out-of-pocket expenses.

Contact Us Today!

At A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center, we understand how serious ingrown toenails are and how painful they can become. Schedule an appointment today with your local podiatrist!

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