What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail is a common condition that occurs when your toenail grows into the nearby skin rather than over it. Although you’re most likely to have this condition with your big toe, it can occur to your other toes as well. If you have an ingrown toenail, you may notice swelling, redness, and pain in the area surrounding the nail, which may indicate an infection.

What causes ingrown toenails?

Causes of ingrown toenails include:

• Naturally curved toenails
• Injuries to your toenails
• Improperly cut toenails
• Tight shoes

How are ingrown toenails diagnosed?

Dr. Dunn usually diagnoses an ingrown toenail simply by examining your toe. During the exam, she looks for signs of infection to determine the best treatment.

Can patients prevent ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails are not always preventable, but you can reduce your risks by cutting your toenails straight across and wearing shoes that fit. Dr. Dunn is happy to supply you with a list of tips to avoid ingrown toenails.

How do podiatrists treat ingrown toenails?

Often, the pain of an ingrown toenail is reason enough for you to seek medical help. By using any of the following procedures, Dr. Dunn can quickly relieve your pain:

Lift the nail

If your case isn’t severe, Dr. Dunn gently lifts the affected toenail away from your skin and placing something under it to prevent it from burrowing deeper.

Remove part of the nail

If your case is moderate to severe, Dr. Dunn may have to remove part of your toenail. She applies a local anesthetic before this procedure so that you won’t feel any pain.

Remove part of the nail and nail bed

In the most severe cases, Dr. Charisse Dunn removes part of your toenail and some of the tissue under it.

Making an appointment with Dr. Dunn at the first signs of an ingrown toenail may save you a significant amount of pain and hassle down the road. Call or go online to book an appointment at PGS Foot & Ankle P.A.