A podiatrist guide - ingrown nails
We hope you are going well and staying healthy this Winter! Recently, we have seen alot of ingrown nails come through the clinic so we thought we would give you a little bit more information about what it is, symptoms and treatment options.
What is an ingrown toe nail?
When a toenail is ingrown, it is curved and grows into the skin. This “digging in” of the nail irritates the skin often creating pain, redness and swelling where the nail meets the skin. An ingrown toenail may happen if a) you cut your nail too short down the side causing the area to grow into the skin b) you wear shoes that are too tight or too short. There are also genetic predispositions, amongst other reasons. Whatever the cause, we can help.
What are the symptoms:
Ingrown toenails are a common, painful condition.
The toenail can be swollen and red
The toenail may bleed
It may become infected
How can a podiatrist help?
Ingrown toenails should be treated as soon as possible to reduce the risk of infection. A podiatrist can help with minimising the risk by clearing the corner of the ingrown section of nail for you and treating the area.
On some occasions, we may choose to do surgical procedure called a Partial Nail Avulsion where we remove a section of ingrown toenail under local anaesthetic. This might sound scary, but we specialise in this procedure and it is done with extreme care to ensure you are well looked after.
Following the appointment, we provide you with ways you can look after the area at home so you feel better in no time. Remember, often ingrown nails can be avoided if you see a podiatrist for regular nail care.
If you have any questions or think you may be suffering from ingrown toenails, please book an appointment online or call us so we can help treat the issue straight away. The longer you leave it, the worse it may get.
Address: 107 Ferguson Street Williamstown
Phone: 03 9379 1366