You have pain from an ingrown toenail and it’s getting worse. But since it’s only a toe, why bother visiting a podiatrist? After all, it’s just an ingrown toenail. It’s not serious. Is it?
Unfortunately, ingrown toenails can lead to infection. The infection can spread to the foot and leg or even into the blood stream. Not a pretty situation. In addition, a chronic ingrown nail can cause deformity of the nail plate and the surrounding soft tissue. It can even cause a benign tumor to form along the nail margin. Therefore, see your podiatrist and have it treated. You might consider having a laser procedure performed that will prevent your ingrown nail from returning.
The causes of ingrown toenails are varied. In some cases, the toenails are just too large. People whose toes curl are prone to them. They can be caused by trauma, such as having a toe stepped on or stubbing a toe. Trimming them incorrectly can also bring on ingrown nails. This causes re-growth into the skin. Excessively tight socks or shoes with too narrow of a toe box can produce them as well.
Podiatrists treat ingrown nails by removing a portion of the damaging nail. In the most severe cases, your podiatrist may remove the entire nail. Many ingrown toenails, however, can be treated without surgery.
If you are a diabetic, never try to treat an ingrown toenail yourself.
Due to fear of surgery, some people procrastinate seeking treatment until the nail has deteriorated to a chronic state. When surgery is required, we use a state-of-the-art laser approach, which reduces pain significantly. This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis at the office. It can be done on your initial office visit.
If you suffer from pain or discomfort and especially if you see signs of infection, see your podiatrist. The relief from pain and avoidance of severe infection makes it worth it.
Dr. Robert Abrams, DPM, is medical director of the FootCare Center of Santa Clarita.
For more information, please call 661-253-3668 or visit www.killerfeet.net .