Ingrown toenails are common but can be a painful, even debilitating, experience. At Family Foot & Ankle Care in Lubbock, Texas, experienced podiatrist Adam Nguyen, DPM, treats ingrown toenails using minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Nguyen works closely with you to prevent the recurrence of ingrown toenails by recommending healthy foot care strategies and proper nail trimming techniques. If you need help treating an infected, painful ingrown toenail, call Family Foot & Ankle Care today.
request an appointmentAn ingrown toenail occurs when your toenail grows into the surrounding skin of your toe. As the nail continues to grow, it can dig into your skin, causing pain and increasing your risk for infection.
Cutting your toenails unevenly or too short is the primary cause of ingrown toenails. You might also be prone to ingrown toenails because of:
- Heredity
- Nail injuries
- Poor foot hygiene
- Wearing tight shoes
- Irregularly curved nails
You might also get frequent ingrown toenails if you have naturally thick toenails or if your toenails thicken as you age.
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can become infected and very painful. With early intervention, Dr. Nguyen can effectively treat the affected toenail and prevent a worsening of your symptoms.
When should I seek treatment for an ingrown toenail?
You should schedule an appointment for an ingrown nail as early as possible, especially if the discomfort is making walking difficult.
Signs that you need Dr. Nguyen to evaluate your toenail include:
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Discharge (pus)
It’s important that a professional like Dr. Nguyen treats an ingrown toenail to prevent an infection and unnecessary damage to your toenail.
How are ingrown toenails treated?
To treat ingrown toenails, Dr. Nguyen uses minimally invasive techniques to remove part of the nail that’s grown into your skin. He places a piece of cotton under the nail to prevent the recurrence of an ingrown nail.
In some cases, such as when you have thick nails, Dr. Nguyen may need to remove your entire nail. He might also apply a special chemical to prevent your nail from growing back.
If you have signs of an active infection, you might need to take a course of antibiotics or use a topical antibiotic on your toe to treat the bacteria.
Dr. Nguyen also offers resources to prevent additional nail issues, such as teaching you how to trim your nails properly and how to practice good foot hygiene. To keep your nails soft for trimming, be sure to soak them for up to 20 minutes beforehand.
To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for an ingrown toenail, call Family Foot & Ankle Care or book an appointment online today.