Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options
What is Ingrown Toenails?
An ingrown toenail is a toenail whose edge grows into the surrounding skin of the nail. This condition causes pain, swelling, and even infection. In typical cases, the big toe is affected, but it can grow in any toe.
An untreated case of an ingrown toenail can lead to severe infection, which can often end up in surgery.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenail
Ingrown nails often result in pain and tenderness. This is typically the first symptom. The skin slowly gets swollen and red and the nail grows into the skin.
In unattended cases of ingrown nail, it might end up in infection causing pus, more inflammation and severe pain. In extreme cases of infection even walking or standing becomes uncomfortable.
Causes of Ingrown Toenail
Improper Nail Trimming
When we cut the nails too short or round the edges, the nail tends to grow into the skin.
Ill-Fitted Shoes
Tight shoes which can squeeze the toes enough to push them into the surrounding skin increase the likelihood of ingrown nails.
Trauma
Dropping something heavy on the toe or stubbing it might result in abnormal growth of the nail.
Genetics
The natural shape of the nail can contribute to the growth of the ingrown toenail. Toenails that are curved and too wide are more prone to this condition.
Ingrown Nails Treatment Options at Restore Podiatry
Onyfix Treatment
Restore podiatry takes a different approach for ingrown toenail treatment. Onyfix, is an advanced non surgical treatment option. It is a nail correction system which gently guides the nail to grow in the normal direction. The nail grows straight and naturally without any surgical intervention, injection or anesthesia.
This treatment is beneficial for patients who suffer from ingrown nails quite often. It can also help people who seek a long term solution with a non-invasive procedure for ingrown nails.
The Onyfix system is painless and effective, aiding to the natural healing and growth pattern of the nail.
Read more about Onyfix for Ingrown Nails here.
Partial Nail Avulsion
Partial nail avulsion is a minor surgical procedure used to treat ingrown toenails by removing the edge of the nail that is growing into the skin.
The procedure is quick, with minimal downtime. It helps relieve pain, reduces inflammation, and prevents infection. Partial nail avulsion promotes proper nail regrowth.
Partial Nail Avulsion with Chemical Matrixectomy
Partial nail avulsion with chemical matrixectomy is a procedure to treat ingrown toenails by removing the offending nail edge and applying a chemical (like phenol) to destroy the nail matrix.
This prevents regrowth of the ingrown section, offering a long-term solution. This procedure is minimally invasive, reduces pain, and lowers the risk of recurrence.
Healing typically occurs within a few weeks, with minimal disruption to daily activities.
At Restore Podiatry & Laser Center, we are proud to offer our newest, latest laser treatment and Clear Nail Program™ & Clear Wart Program™ which are powerful inclusive approach to your treatment for toenail fungus and warts. We take time to understand our patients and understand their needs.
