Ingrown toenails are one of the most common podiatric issues facing people today. Going by the medical name onychocryptosis, this painful nail condition occurs when a toenail (typically on the big toe) invades the flesh surrounding it. At Cherry Creek Foot Clinic in Denver, CO, Dr. Florin Costache and Dr. Lorry Melnick see scores of cases every year, and they are here to help you too!
Your toenails
They need consistent care, just as your fingernails do. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says that to keep your nails consistently healthy, you should avoid restrictive footwear, wash your feet daily, and wear moisture-wicking socks to help avoid fungal growth.
Perhaps most important, though, is how you trim your nails. Always use a pair of sharp, clean clippers, and cut nails straight across. That way, the nails will not grow into the surrounding flesh and cause an ingrown toenail.
If you do have an ingrown toenail...
Your Denver podiatrists can help. Come into our office and Dr. Costache or Dr. Melnick will inspect your toenails, including the ingrown nail. Then, depending upon the condition's severity and how present the infection is, we may recommend the following interventions:
- Warm water soaks two-to-three times a day for a few days to soften the nail (you may add epsom salts to the water)
- Wearing clean dry socks daily and open-toed shoes if possible
- Taking over the counter medications for pain relief (ibuprofen or acetaminophen according to the dosing directions on the bottle)
- Partial or total nail removal in the office (done with locally injected anesthetic)
If a toe becomes infected as a result of onychocryptosis, your podiatrist may also prescribe an oral antibiotic.
Find relief
If you need help with an ingrown toenail, don't wait! Call Cherry Creek Foot Clinic today at (303) 355-1695, and we will be happy to get you comfortable and moving well again. The clinic is open Monday through Thursday from 8 am to 5 pm.