Ingrown toenails are common, but without proper treatment, they can become infected and lead to serious problems, especially for people with diabetes. The expert team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery in Richmond and Farmville, Virginia, provides prompt treatment for ingrown toenails so you can avoid complications. Call the nearest office or request an appointment online today for advanced care of ingrown toenails.
An ingrown toenail is when the side of your nail grows into the skin next to it. As the toenail digs into the surrounding flesh, your toe may become red, swollen, and painful. In some cases, the toe can get infected.
People with medical conditions that affect blood flow to the feet, such as diabetes, are at greater risk for complications of ingrown toenails. The team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery provides comprehensive diabetic foot care, including ingrown toenail treatment.
Ingrown toenails usually affect your big toe. In their early stages, ingrown toenails can be hard, swollen, and tender to the touch. Without treatment, the toe can turn red and may show signs of infection, such as increased pain and pus drainage.
Trimming your toenails too short or rounding the corners of the nail can increase the likelihood of an ingrown toenail. Wearing shoes that crowd your toenails, injuring your toenail, or having toenails that are naturally curved may also increase your risk for ingrown toenails.
In addition to treating ingrown toenails, the team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery teaches you how to prevent them from happening. Steps you can take to avoid ingrown toenails include:
If you have diabetes, you should check your feet every day for signs of ingrown toenails and other foot problems, such as wounds and discoloration. Call New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery right away if you notice any changes. People with diabetes shouldn’t attempt to treat ingrown toenails on their own.
First, the team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery examines your foot to determine the severity of your ingrown toenail. Then, they recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.
Mild ingrown toenails may improve with home care measures, such as:
If the toe is infected, your podiatrist may prescribe antibiotics. They may also partially or completely remove the nail. If ingrown toenails continue to be a problem, they may recommend surgically removing the nail and a portion of the underlying nail bed.
For comprehensive care of ingrown toenails, call New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery or request an appointment online today.
