Ingrown Toenail

Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma can help treat and prevent ingrown toenails. An ingrown toenail is a condition in which the corner of a toenail grows downward into the skin. While it can affect anyone, ingrown toenails are seen most often in adolescents and people who have diabetes, poor blood circulation, severe nerve damage around their leg or foot, or an infection around the nail.

Causes

An ingrown toenail can be caused by many different things, including:

• Trauma to the toe
• Tearing the corners of nails
• Shoes that do not fit properly
• Toenails that are not cut correctly. Toenails that are trimmed too short or too round may cause the nail to grow downward into the skin.

Symptoms

In most cases, an ingrown toenail affects the big toe and can be painful. Additional signs and symptoms of an infected ingrown toenail includes:

• Pain the toe, most often the big toe
• Liquid or purulent discharge (pus) from the toe
• Redness or darkening discoloration
• Swelling
• Warm or hot feeling in the toe

Treatments

Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma offers diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions, including ingrown toenails. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and athletic trainers are committed to helping patients find relief and return to the highest level of activity possible.

Treating an ingrown toenail generally controls the infection and prevents any further pain and discomfort. Methods of at-home treatment include:

• Soak the foot in warm, soapy, sudsy water
• Apply a topical antibiotic ointment and a bandage
• Wear roomy shoe gear or sandals

To schedule an appointment, call us at 405-463-4140.