Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Sacramento, CA
We have all made the painful mistake of trimming our nails too short at some point. Sometimes, that small mistake leads to an ingrown toenail that makes every step uncomfortable. At Dennis Grandy, DPM, we provide fast, effective relief for painful and infected ingrown toenails. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule your visit.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows downward into the surrounding skin instead of straight out. The nail presses into the soft tissue, causing pain, redness, and swelling, and often leads to infection. Ingrown toenails are most common on the sides of the big toe, but they can affect any toe.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
- Trimming nails too short or rounding the corners
- Shoes or socks that are too tight and crowd the toes
- Injury to the toe, such as stubbing or dropping something on it
- Fungal infections that thicken or change the shape of the nail
- Inherited nail shape or poor foot structure
Signs and Symptoms
Early signs include tenderness and swelling along the side of the nail. As the condition progresses, the skin may become red and warm, and drainage or pus may appear if an infection develops. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should not attempt home treatment and should contact our office right away, as minor infections can quickly become serious. Learn more about our diabetic foot care.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment Options
For mild cases, warm water soaks several times a day, properly fitted shoes and socks, and trimming nails straight across can relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence. If there is an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. When an ingrown toenail is painful, infected, or keeps coming back, Dr. Grandy can perform a quick in-office procedure to remove the ingrown portion of the nail. For chronic cases, the nail root along the affected edge can be treated to keep that section from growing back.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Trim your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Choose shoes with a roomy toe box, especially for sports, and keep your feet clean and dry. Older adults who have difficulty trimming their nails can benefit from professional nail care as part of our geriatric foot care. Explore all of the conditions we treat.
Ingrown Toenail FAQs
What causes ingrown toenails?
Common causes include cutting nails too short or rounded, tight shoes, toe injuries, fungal infections, and inherited nail shape.
Can I treat an ingrown toenail at home?
Mild cases may improve with warm soaks and roomy shoes. If you see redness, pus, or worsening pain, or if you have diabetes, see a podiatrist instead of treating it yourself.
Is ingrown toenail removal painful?
The toe is numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure, so most patients feel little to no pain during treatment.
How long does it take to heal after ingrown toenail removal?
Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two, and the area typically heals within a few weeks.
Will my ingrown toenail come back?
Recurrence is possible, especially with chronic cases. Treating the nail root along the affected edge can help prevent regrowth.
Are ingrown toenails dangerous for people with diabetes?
Yes. Reduced circulation and sensation can allow infections to spread quickly, so people with diabetes should seek prompt professional care.
How do I prevent ingrown toenails?
Trim nails straight across, avoid cutting them too short, and wear shoes and socks that give your toes enough room.
Get Relief From Ingrown Toenail Pain
You do not have to live with a painful toe. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule an appointment with Dennis Grandy, DPM today.