Ingrown Toenail Specialist

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail is a painful condition that develops when the edge or upper corner of your toenail curves and grows into the flesh of your toe instead of growing straight out.

Ingrown toenails are more common on your big toe. You might notice that your toe turns red or swells slightly. Your toe will hurt and be extremely tender, and it’s possible for an infection to develop in the soft tissue around your toenail.

What causes an ingrown toenail?

In many cases, ingrown toenails are due to poor grooming habits. You should cut your toenails straight across, without curves at the edges. A curved edge can encourage the nail to grow in the wrong direction.

Also, if you wear shoes that don't fit properly and crowd your toes, the pressure can cause your toenail to grow inward.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

The podiatrists at Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center customize treatments for ingrown toenails. They can lift your toenail and place a piece of gauze under it to prevent it from growing back in.

If your ingrown toenail is severe, they may cut away the ingrown portion of the nail. If your podiatrist needs to remove part of your nail, he will thoroughly numb your toe with a local anesthetic that will keep you out of pain.

If you frequently develop ingrown nails on the same toe, your podiatrist may suggest a procedure involving removing a portion of your nail and the underlying tissue. He uses a chemical to prevent the nail from growing in that direction again. If this procedure is necessary, your podiatrist will thoroughly numb your foot to ensure your comfort.

Your podiatrist can also prescribe oral and topical antibiotics to fight off any infection in the soft tissue surrounding your ingrown toenail.

How can I prevent ingrown toenails?

When it comes to ingrown toenails, prevention is the best strategy. You can prevent ingrown toenails by making sure to cut your nails across so they’re even with the tips of your toes. If they’re too short, the pressure from your shoes can press the nail into your nail bed. You should also wear shoes that fit properly and have plenty of room for your toes.

If you’ve developed an ingrown toenail, call or schedule an appointment online today for quick and effective treatment from the team at Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center.