You may think of ingrown toenails as a minor issue, but the problem can escalate and cause complications, such as infection. You could be looking at ingrown toenail removal. Who knew that something so seemingly minor can require a procedure to remove?
Ingrown toenails are a very common foot problem that can cause pain, swelling, and redness due to the toenail growing into the skin of the toe. This problem can cause severe pain. If a small scrape on the foot can make walking difficult, so can an ingrown toenail. Putting on your shoes and staying on your feet can become excruciating.
If you are considering an ingrown toenail removal, you may be concerned about the pain. Let’s talk about ingrown toenail removal.
Ingrown Toenail Removal
The process for removing an ingrown toenail is typically done in two steps. The first step is to numb the area with local anesthesia. This is so patients don’t feel any pain throughout the procedure. Generally speaking, patients only experience minor discomfort during the removal of the ingrown toenail.
The next step is to cut away the nail border. After part of the nail has been removed, relief is almost immediate. Since the nail is what causes pressure against the skin, the removal removes pain-causing pressure. Doctors can remove the nail matrix, located under the base of the toenail, which can prevent the problem from returning.
After the toenail removal, the doctor will dress the wound in some gauze and bandage. You should keep your toe protected at this time as it heals. You can return to work the next day. Wear open-toed shoes for the first few days.How To Prevent Ingrown Toenails
Prevention is always preferred by doctors. There are a couple of steps you can take to prevent ingrown toenails from occurring in the first place.
First, wear properly fitting shoes. Shoes that fit too tightly will put pressure on your toes and increase your risk of developing an ingrown nail. Make sure your shoes provide enough room for your toes, so they don’t become cramped or squished together while walking or running around throughout the day. Additionally, avoid wearing high heels as these also put extra pressure on your feet, which could lead to an ingrown nail over time if worn frequently enough.
Another important step is trimming your nails correctly by cutting them straight across instead of rounding off at the corners. This step prevents part of the nail from growing into the skin. Additionally, make sure not to cut your nails too short – clip them slightly above the part where they start curving downward.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
The board-certified foot and ankle doctors at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England will determine whether your ingrown toenail can be treated with medication or surgery. We can find the perfect solution for your foot problem – there is no foot and ankle issue we cannot handle. Our doctors treat adult and pediatric patients in our locations in Warwick and Middletown, RI, and Fall River, MA.
To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists, call our podiatry office nearest you or use our online form to send your request.
