Understanding Ingrown Toenails
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Definition: Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the toenails grow into the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort and potential complications.
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Causes and Contributing Factors: Improper nail trimming, wearing ill-fitting shoes, and sustaining toe injuries are common causes of ingrown toenails.
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Symptoms: Individuals with ingrown toenails may experience pain, redness, swelling, and infection around the affected toenail, impacting their daily activities.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment
Numbing and Removal
Your podiatrist will administer a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience, then carefully surgically remove the ingrown portion of the nail. This procedure aims to alleviate discomfort and prevent further irritation.
Post-Procedure Care
Following the procedure, you can expect minimal pain or discomfort due to the effects of the anesthetic. Recovery typically spans 2 weeks, during which you’ll undergo dressing changes and a final checkup at 4 weeks to ensure proper healing.
Nail Elevation and Splinting
In some cases, your podiatrist may use a splint to gently elevate the nail from the surrounding skin, promoting proper growth and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Preventive Recommendations
Your podiatrist may offer guidance on footwear selection, orthotics that correct biomechanics of the foot, foot hygiene practices, and proper nail cutting techniques to minimize the risk of future ingrown toenails.
Preventive Measures
For chronic ingrown toenails, your podiatrist may utilize chemical, laser, or other methods to permanently prevent ingrown nails. Techniques such as phenolization can effectively prevent future occurrences.