Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown Toenail Treatment Santa Monica, CA

At SoCal Sports Podiatry, our doctors provide effective treatment for ingrown toenails, helping to alleviate pain and prevent complications. Don’t let discomfort keep you from daily activities—schedule an appointment today to address the issue and restore your foot health.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be caused by several factors, including improper nail trimming, where cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that are too tight or narrow can also contribute to the condition by putting pressure on the toes and causing the nail to grow abnormally. Trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping a heavy object on it, may lead to the nail growing into the skin as well. Additionally, some people have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails due to the shape and structure of their nails and toes. Poor foot hygiene can further increase the risk by creating an environment that promotes infection and worsens the issue.

Symptoms of Ingrown Toenail

Pain: The most common symptom is pain along the side of the toenail, which can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, particularly when wearing shoes or walking.

Redness and Swelling: The skin around the ingrown toenail may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch.

Infection: If not treated promptly, an ingrown toenail can lead to infection, resulting in pus or drainage and increased pain and swelling.

Tenderness: The area around the ingrown toenail may be tender and sensitive, making it uncomfortable to touch or apply pressure.

Diagnosis and Treatment at SoCal Sports Podiatry

At SoCal Sports Podiatry, our specialists diagnose ingrown toenails through a thorough examination of the affected toe. In some cases, we may take a sample for laboratory analysis if an infection is present. Based on the severity of the condition, we provide personalized treatment options to alleviate symptoms and address the underlying cause.

Treatment Options

• Conservative Care: For mild cases, self-care measures such as soaking the foot in warm, soapy water and gently lifting the edge of the nail away from the skin can provide relief. Applying over-the-counter antibiotic ointments and keeping the area clean and dry can also help prevent infection.
• Proper Nail Trimming: Learning and practicing proper nail-trimming techniques can prevent future occurrences. Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short or rounding the edges.
• Footwear Adjustments: Wearing well-fitting shoes with ample toe room can reduce pressure on the toes and prevent ingrown toenails from developing or worsening.
• Antibiotic Therapy: If an infection is present, oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection and alleviate symptoms.
• Nail Removal: In more severe cases, a portion of the ingrown toenail may need to be removed to relieve pressure and prevent further growth into the skin. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and involves removing the problematic nail segment.
• Permanent Nail Removal: For recurrent or chronic ingrown toenails, a permanent nail removal procedure may be recommended. This involves removing part or all of the toenail to prevent it from growing back and causing ongoing issues. This procedure is usually performed in a sterile environment under local anesthesia, and the area is carefully monitored to ensure proper healing.

Prevention Tips

To prevent ingrown toenails, it is important to trim toenails properly by cutting them straight across and avoiding cutting them too short or rounding the edges, which can cause the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. Wearing appropriate footwear that fits well and provides sufficient space for the toes is also essential to minimize pressure on the toenails. Maintaining good foot hygiene by keeping the feet clean and dry promotes healthy nail growth and reduces the risk of infection. Additionally, wearing protective footwear during activities that may lead to trauma can help prevent injuries that contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.

For effective diagnosis and treatment of ingrown toenails, visit SoCal Sports Podiatry at our office. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care to address your concerns and help you achieve optimal foot health. Call us at (310) 395-5025 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relieving pain and preventing future issues.