Is an ingrown toenail causing you pain?
An Ingrown toenail or infected toenail may be caused by the following:
- Poorly cut nails
- Heredity
- Tight shoes/socks/stockings
- Repeated trauma to the feet from normal activities
The following symptoms may be present with an infected toenail:
- Pain, redness and swelling
- Drainage (pus or clear fluid)
- Odour
- Prominent skin tissue (proud flesh)
Ingrown Toenails can be caused by the following
Home Treatment
If you suspect an ingrown toenail, bathe your foot in a bowl of warm salt water for approximately 5 minutes, then apply an antiseptic ointment to the infected toenail.
Cover the area to keep clean and make an appointment to see your podiatrist.
Podiatry Treatment
Conservative treatment consists of, removal of the offending nail spike, or surgical removal, with sterilization of the nail matrix to prevent the nail from regrowing
This procedure requires a local anesthetic and the procedure is done in the podiatrist’s rooms by Carol our chief podiatrist.
Nail Surgery
If the infection has been long standing nail surgery may be required. Surgery is an in rooms procedure allowing you to return to work/school the following day.
A course of antibiotics from your Doctor may be required prior to surgery if the toe is red and very swollen.
People with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or other circulatory disorders must avoid any form of self-treatment and seek podiatric care as soon as possible.
Ingrown nails can be prevented by trimming toenails straight across and selecting proper shoe style and size but not too tapered or shallow and paying special attention to foot pain.