Two out of 10 visits to the podiatrist are due to ingrown toenails. Though common, without treatment, they can increase the risk of infection or more serious complications. At Total Family Foot Care, Terry Wright, DPM, and Jacquelyn Perry, DPM, offer comprehensive treatment for ingrown toenails. To make an appointment at the practice in Fort Worth or Arlington, Texas, call the nearest office or click the online booking feature today.
request an appointmentWhat are ingrown toenails?
An ingrown toenail occurs when your nail grows into the soft flesh surrounding the nail bed instead of out and away from your toe. It results in pain, swelling, and sensitivity that typically resolves in a few days or a week.
Ingrown toenails are incredibly common, but if you have diabetes or another condition that affects your circulation, it’s important to get treated. Otherwise, you might develop an infection or more serious issues, like gangrene.
What are the symptoms of ingrown toenails?
Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Warmth
- Pain and tenderness
If your nail becomes infected, it might ooze pus or interfere with your ability to stand, walk, or exercise.
When should I seek treatment for ingrown toenails?
Make an appointment at Total Family Foot Care if your toenail causes intense pain or interferes with your daily routine. That’s especially true if you have a circulatory condition that affects blood flow to your lower extremities.
What causes ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails occur for various reasons, including:
- Wearing tight shoes that press your toes together
- Cutting your toenails at an angle
- Stubbing your toe or injuring your toenail
- Having unusually curved toenails
Even if your ingrown nail doesn’t seem serious, it’s a good idea to get it checked out. Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
How are ingrown toenails diagnosed?
To diagnose an ingrown toenail, Dr. Wright or Dr. Perry reviews your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and examines your toe. Most ingrown nails are visible to the eye, but your provider might also order X-rays to determine how deep the nail penetrates your skin.
How are ingrown toenails treated?
At Total Family Foot Care, Dr. Wright and Dr. Perry offer several treatment options for ingrown toenails, including:
Partially removing the nail
If your ingrown toenail is red and painful, your provider might recommend partially removing it. To ensure your comfort, Dr. Wright or Dr. Perry numbs your toe with a local anesthetic. Then, using special tools, they carefully remove the ingrown portion of your nail.
Completely removing the nail
If you regularly experience ingrown toenails on the same toe, Dr. Wright or Dr. Perry might recommend removing the nail completely.
To explore the various treatment options for ingrown toenails, make an appointment at Total Family Foot Care by calling the nearest office or clicking the online scheduling feature today.