Ingrown toenails are caused many times by trimming the toenail too short, mostly on the side of the big toe.
This very common problem can also be quite painful, so to avoid this you need to cut the nail without tapering the corners to that when the nail grows it curves with the shape of the toe. Improper cutting can result in the sides of the nail digging into the sides of the skin. Footwear that is either too small or too tight can also cause ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenails start out achy, swollen and tender, and later, may become more sore, red and infected. Your skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.
Another way to treat an ingrown toenail is by soaking your foot in warm, soapy water several times a day. The Gentle Foot Care Clinic recommends that you visit our offices in Brandon or in Zephyrhills and let Dr. Cruz determine the best course of treatment for your condition.
If an infection is present, antibiotics can be prescribed. If an acute infection is present, then a procedure called a partial nail plate removal that will remove the part of the ingrown toenail that is causing the infection. Before the part of the ingrown toenail is cut out, anesthetic is injected into the site for pain reduction. It is important to know that many doctors just out you on an antibiotic and it may help temporarily. However, if the infection is not drained by removing a portion of the nail, antibiotics usually will not resolve your problem. This is why it is important to have this looked at by Dr. Cruz as soon as you start to have the problem.
Ways to prevent ingrown toenails include:
Did you know that there is a permanent solution to cure ingrown toenails if you are getting them often? Dr. Cruz can perform a quick and simple in office procedure after making your toe numb. He uses the latest techniques so there are no incisions and no stitches required. Call today and ask about having your ingrown toenail fixed permanently!
Your local Brandon Podiatrist has the answer
Your Board-Certified Brandon Podiatrist, Dr. Jairo Cruz Jr, has years of experience in the podiatry field. He can help diagnose and treat any foot or ankle problems you have. To make an appointment at his Brandon office, please call (813) 502-5904. To make an appointment at his Zephyrhills office, please call (813) 782-3233.
