An ingrown toenail can turn a simple step into a sharp, throbbing reminder all day long. And once it’s infected, it rarely gets better on its own. Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle offers quick, comfortable, in-office treatment that relieves the pain right away and can keep it from coming back.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. The big toe is most likely to get an ingrown toenail. The result is pain, redness, and swelling, and if bacteria get in, infection. Improper trimming, tight shoes, injury, and naturally curved nails are the usual causes.
Signs of an infected ingrown toenail
Come in promptly if you notice increasing pain, spreading redness, warmth, drainage or pus, or a foul odor. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should be seen right away for any ingrown toenail, as even minor foot infections can become serious.
What causes bunions?
Bunions are largely the result of inherited foot mechanics: the way your foot is structured and how it bears weight. Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes don’t directly cause bunions, but they can speed up their formation and make symptoms worse. Arthritis and prior foot injuries can also contribute.
In-office removal
We numb the toe and gently remove the ingrown portion of the nail. A procedure that takes only a few minutes and brings immediate relief. For recurring ingrown nails, we can perform a permanent correction (matrixectomy) that treats the nail edge so it won’t grow back in, sparing you repeat episodes.
Recovery and prevention
Most patients return to normal activity quickly with simple aftercare. To prevent recurrence, trim nails straight across (not rounded), avoid cutting them too short, and choose shoes with adequate toe room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an ingrown toenail heal on its own?
A very mild, early ingrown nail may settle with soaking and proper trimming. But once it’s painful, swollen, or infected, professional treatment is the reliable way to resolve it and prevent complications.
Does ingrown toenail removal hurt?
The toe is numbed first, so the procedure itself is essentially painless, and most patients feel significant relief immediately afterward.
How can I stop ingrown toenails from coming back?
Proper trimming and roomier footwear help. For chronic ingrown nails, a permanent matrixectomy treats the nail edge so the problem doesn’t recur.
Don’t let foot or ankle pain keep you from the things you love. Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle has board-certified podiatrists in Murray, Draper, and Tooele serving patients across the Salt Lake City area. Call 801-261-1391 or request an appointment online. We get you in quickly, and appointments are always available.
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Diabetic Foot Conditions
Diabetic foot conditions, such as neuropathy, poor circulation, and infections, are common complications of diabetes. These issues can lead to ulcers, wounds, and even amputations if left untreated. Early detection, proper care, and management are essential to prevent severe outcomes.
