Ingrown toenails, or onychocryptosis, occur when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. This common condition primarily affects the big toe but can occur on any toe.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails
• Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can promote ingrowth.
• Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals inherit a tendency toward ingrown toenails.
• Tight-Fitting Footwear: Shoes that exert excessive pressure on the toes can lead to nail issues.
• Trauma: Repeated injury to the toes can increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails.
• Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections around the nail can cause improper nail growth.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Recognizing the symptoms early can lead to timely intervention. Common signs include:
• Pain and Tenderness: Discomfort along the nail edge.
• Redness and Swelling: Inflammation around the affected area.
• Drainage and Odor: Potential drainage of pus, indicating infection.
• Proud Flesh: Overgrowth of skin tissue around the ingrown nail.
Treating ingrown toenails depends on severity and can range from conservative measures to surgical interventions.
Conservative Treatments
• Footwear Adjustments: Switching to larger, more comfortable shoes can alleviate pressure on the toenail.
• Medication: Topical treatments that soften the nail and antibiotics for infections can provide relief.
• Proper Trimming: Cutting the nail straight across can prevent further encroachment into the skin.
• Padding: Using over-the-counter padding can cushion the area and ease discomfort.
Surgical Treatment
If conservative methods fail, surgical intervention may be required. Our minimally invasive technique involves removing only the ingrown portion of the nail while preserving the remainder. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to bear weight immediately afterward.
Fungal toenails occur when a fungal infection infiltrates the nail bed, leading to changes in color, texture, and thickness. Poor nail care, tight footwear, and previous trauma can increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Symptoms of Fungal Toenails
Fungal toenails present a range of symptoms, including:
• Discoloration: Nails may appear dull and dark.
• Thickened Nails: Increased thickness can lead to discomfort.
• Nail Separation: The nail may start to detach from the nail bed.
Effective nail care is crucial for managing fungal toenails. Treatment options may include:
Conservative Treatments
• Footwear Adjustments: Opting for roomier shoes can alleviate pressure on infected nails.
• Regular Trimming: Keeping nails well-trimmed helps maintain nail health and prevents further complications.
• Medications: Topical antifungal treatments and oral medications may be prescribed, with liver function monitoring required for oral medications.
Surgical Treatment
In severe cases, surgical removal of the infected nail may be necessary. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, allowing for immediate weight-bearing afterward. Following the removal, topical medications are applied to promote healing.
Stay informed by reviewing some of our patients frequently asked questions about what to expect when visiting one of our Florida or Texas foot and ankle care offices. Contact the office directly if you need further assistance. We’re here to help!
Modern Foot & Ankle offers a wide range of podiatry services including foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine, pediatric foot care, wound care, orthotics, and more. They also provide specialized treatments for conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and ingrown toenails among others.
To schedule an appointment, you can call the clinic directly or fill out the appointment request form available on their website. They have multiple locations, so you can choose the one that’s most convenient for you.
During your first visit, the podiatrist will conduct a thorough examination, discuss your medical history, and address any concerns or symptoms you may have. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Yes, the podiatrists at Modern Foot & Ankle are skilled in performing a variety of foot and ankle surgeries. These include procedures for bunions, hammertoes, fractures, and more. They utilize the latest techniques and technology to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.
Modern Foot & Ankle is committed to providing comprehensive, high-quality podiatric care. They believe in a patient-centered approach, where the focus is on educating patients about their condition and treatment options, enabling them to make informed decisions about their care.
Modern Foot & Ankle accepts a variety of insurance plans. It’s recommended to check with the clinic directly or with your insurance provider to confirm coverage before scheduling an appointment.
