Should I See a Podiatrist for an Ingrown Toenail?

ingrown toenail treatment

In two previous blog posts, I discussed prevention of ingrown toenails and a home treatment that may provide some relief (for people who are otherwise in good health). However, if you currently have an ingrown toenail, there are some situations in which you should absolutely see a podiatrist and not attempt to treat it yourself.

You should see a podiatrist about an ingrown toenail if …

  • You see drainage, excessive redness or signs of infection,
  • You have severe pain,
  • You've tried a home remedy and it didn't work, or
  • You have diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or other circulatory disorders (if you have any of these conditions, you should see a podiatrist immediately, at the first sign of an ingrown toenail, to avoid serious complications.)

What can a podiatrist do to treat your ingrown toenail?

An experienced podiatrist can properly diagnose and determine the most effective treatment for your ingrown toenail. At The Foot & Ankle Center, our podiatrists routinely treat ingrown toenails. In many cases, we'll apply a numbing agent to your foot and remove the ingrown portion of the nail. We may also prescribe medication to treat any infection that has occurred. Some people have a chronic problem with a particular toenail that keeps becoming ingrown; in those cases there is a procedure we can do that will permanently prevent ingrown toenails. We can also advise you on ways to prevent ingrown toenails in the future, including proper nail care and shoes that fit well.

If you've been suffering with ingrown toenails, please know that we've been able to help many others who've had the same painful problem. I encourage you to make an appointment today, and see how we can help you.

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