Ingrown toenails are a common problem faced by many. However, once someone realizes they have an ingrown toenail, it is vital that it is treated appropriately. Ingrown toenails can be immensely painful and lead to serious infections. It is critical for those who suffer from diabetes or have poor circulation to have an ingrown toenail treated immediately to prevent further complications.
There are various options for treating ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails must be removed from the site of which they have become ingrown. This can often be done easily in a doctor’s office with a simple procedure. For ingrown toenails that are infected it is important that they are removed immediately and are typically removed in the office to help resolve an infection. When the toenail is removed, a partial nail avulsion is performed where the ingrown portion of the toenail is excised. More severe cases may need to be addressed surgically in the operating room.
Depending on the cause of the ingrown toenail, some people may only require the offending nail border to be removed once. That portion of the nail then grows out naturally and painlessly for a normal appearing toenail. A more permanent procedure may be needed for those who have recurring ingrown nails. The portion of the nail that is constantly becoming ingrown can be removed and the matrix or root of the nail can either be excised in the operating room under anesthesia or the root can be painlessly eliminated in the office. Both treatment options allow for a normal appearing toenail.
It is with the utmost importance that ingrown toenails are treated accordingly. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, please call the doctors at Progressive Foot Care to make an appointment to have your feet and toenails evaluated.