Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown Toenails If you experience pain, swelling, or redness around the corners of your toenails, you may have an ingrown toenail. This condition occurs when the corner of the toenail begins to grow into the skin of the toe. If you’ve ever had an ingrown toenail, you may not realize that it can be treated. Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center, your podiatrist in Alexandria, VA offers treatment options for ingrown toenails.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails, a condition known as onychocryptosis, can have many causes. One of the main causes includes trimming the toenails too short or unevenly. Ill-fitting shoes may also be the culprit, especially those that are too tight. An ingrown toenail could also be caused by an injury to the foot, a fungal infection or other traumas to the foot.

What Does an Ingrown Toe Nail Feel Like?

While very common, ingrown toenails can also be quite painful. They begin simply enough by feeling hard, uncomfortable, and swollen. Some ingrown toenails resolve on their own. But if it is left untreated and does not resolve, the toenail can become infected.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenail?

Alexandria patients may want to begin by trying to soak the affected toe in warm water. Stay away from shoes and socks that are tight or those that cut off circulation. If the toe becomes infected, you may need antibiotics from your podiatrist. In the rarest cases, surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be warranted. When you begin to experience an ingrown toenail, call your podiatrist to discuss remedies.

If you start to see the tell-tale signs of an ingrown toenail, contact the friendly doctors of Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA. They can help advise you on the steps to take to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and diagnose any possible signs of infection. If your toes are bothering you, schedule an appointment today.