A toenail can become ingrown and cause infection of the adjacent skin if the nail is cut too short or if you wear shoes that are too tight, thereby squeezing the nailbed into the nail. An ingrowth most often happens to the big toe, and it’s very uncomfortable especially when wearing shoes.
If the area surrounding your toenail is becoming red, inflamed, and pushing and growing into the skin, it is best to address an ingrown toenail as quickly as possible. You have likely tried to resolve it yourself to no avail, and you may have even made it worse, so it is time to see an experienced podiatrist.
Let’s talk about what a podiatrist can do for your toenail infection and who you can talk to about keeping your feet healthy.
How Can a Podiatrist Treat My Ingrown Toenail?
Those who are not medically trained may make an ingrown toenail worse and more painful if they attempt to remove it themselves. That is why it is in your best interest to see a skilled podiatrist about any infection in your toes and feet.
The physician will first numb the foot or toe with an injection so that the treatment is not painful. The doctor can gently lift your nail and insert a tiny amount of gauze, cotton, or a splint in order to separate the nail from the skin. The doctor will also remove and treat the infected tissue, including the skin on top of the affected nail.
Your podiatrist might also recommend that you have a minor surgery to separate your toenail from the nailbed. In some cases, your doctor may remove the entire nail if both sides of the nail are ingrown, if it is a persistent problem, or if it is causing a more serious infection.
You will be advised to soak your foot in warm water and to replace the gauze daily. The doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic in order to stop the infection.
Foot Doctors in San Antonio, Texas
If your ingrown toenail is becoming painful or is interfering with your daily tasks and normal walking, it is time to see a physician who specializes in treating the feet and toes. Our skilled medical team at The Podiatry Group of South Texas comprises podiatrists who treat foot disorders every day. They treat foot and ankle issues affecting the bones, muscles, nerves, skin, and nails, and they know how to treat these issues using the least-invasive methods so you can heal as quickly as possible.
We know how to diagnose and properly treat a wide spectrum of foot and ankle problems such as arthritis, diabetic neuropathy and diabetic foot, bunions, fractures, Athlete’s foot, plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and toenail infections.
If you have any questions about the services we offer, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our excellent physicians, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at our location near you or by filling out our easy-to-use online appointment request form now. We look forward to helping you get back in step again!
