Ingrown toenails are a painful and often unsightly condition of the foot. It's important to correct ingrown toenails, as the condition will only get worse over time. At Mount Dora Podiatry of Mount Dora, FL, we excel at treating ingrown toenails in a fast and effective manner.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail is a foot condition in which the nail grows into the nail bed and surrounding skin. This can be very painful for obvious reasons, but it may also lead to infection and difficulty walking if left untreated. They most often occur on the big toe but may affect all toes and fingers. Not all ingrown nails are extremely noticeable. Some may have no symptoms at all. As they worsen, ingrown toenails cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. They may even develop a blister. Once an ingrown nail is identified, it's best to remedy the issue as quickly as possible.
Mount Dora Podiatry of Mount Dora, FL, can help you resolve your foot health issues. Simply reach out and ask to meet with Dr. Bernadette Giangreco.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
The easiest way to deal with ingrown toenails is to avoid them. They're often caused by tight footwear, which puts improper pressure on the toe, causing the nail to deform. Repetitive use and sudden injuries, such as kicking a ball or stubbing your toe, may also encourage ingrown nail formation. It's also important to maintain proper hygiene practices and cut the nails appropriately, since tapering a nail may encourage the edges to dig into the skin.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment
Once you have an ingrown toenail, it's best to treat it promptly. Some can be managed at home. It's advised to soak the feet in warm water and push back the skin around the nail. Then, simply cut away the ingrown section and allow it to heal. Some see successful results from simply putting a bit of cotton under the ingrown edge and allowing it to grow out normally. More serious cases, on the other hand, may require medical intervention. Patients undergo a light surgical procedure in which the ingrown section is removed and the nail is narrowed.
If you believe you have an ingrown toenail in the Mount Dora, FL, area, contact Mount Dora Podiatry today. Dr. Bernadette Giangreco will be happy to meet with you and determine the best course of treatment. Give us a call at (352) 385-9156 to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to working with you!
