Ingrown toenails can be painful or unsightly, but Dr. Florin Costache and Dr. Lorry Melnick at Cherry Creek Foot and Ankle Clinic can help if you're suffering from an ingrown toenail. Read about treatment options for ingrown toenails and come see us for an appointment in Denver, CO, if you have an ingrown toenail.
When a toenail is curved it can grow into or dig into the skin on the toe, causing an ingrown toenail. Some people inherit the tendency to have ingrown toenails, but more often they happen as a result of wearing tight footwear, trauma like stubbing your toe, or clipping your toenails too short. Ingrown toenails are prone to infection so you should treat them right away. Your Denver, CO, can help if you're dealing with ingrown toenails.
The following are some ways you can treat an ingrown toenail at home:
- Soaking the foot can help relieve pain and swelling from an ingrown toenail. Soak in warm water and dry your feet thoroughly after each soak
- Bandage the toe to protect it against further trauma
- Use an antibiotic ointment on the toe to prevent infection
- Choose footwear with room for your toes to wiggle
- Keep your feet dry when not soaking
You can do these things at home to relieve pain and swelling but you should still contact your podiatrist, especially if you notice signs of infection. Increased pain and swelling, redness, and any drainage are signs of an infection.
If your ingrown toenail isn't relieved by soaking or if it becomes infected you should see your podiatrist, and they may perform minor surgery on the toenail. During the surgery, your toe is numbed and you shouldn't feel discomfort. The ingrown portion of the toenail is cut and most patients resume normal activity the next day.
To prevent ingrown toenails, take care of your toenails by cutting them straight across. When the toe is cut too short it's easier for the skin to grow over the nail. Wear comfortable and supportive footwear that gives your toes plenty of room.
If you have an ingrown toenail, Dr. Costache and Dr. Melnick of Cherry Creek Foot and Ankle Clinic can advise you on the best treatment. Contact us for an appointment in Denver, CO, at (201) 613-2957.
