Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem that can make wearing shoes, standing, and walking around challenging. At Maryland Podiatry Center in Ellicott City, Maryland, podiatrist John Murphy, DPM, can discuss ingrown toenails and treatment so that you can get back to your active lifestyle. You don’t have to suffer from your ingrown toenail pain. Call Maryland Podiatry Center today or schedule an appointment online.

What causes ingrown toenails?

When the edge of your toenail grows into the skin, you have an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails often cause pain and swelling. Ingrown toenails have several causes, but improper nail trimming is the most common.

If you cut your nails too short or with a curved edge, the skin at the edge of the nail can fold over the nail. As your nail grows, it cuts into the folded skin.

Ingrown toenails might also develop after an injury to your toenail or toe. Wearing shoes that leave little room for the toes can also put you at risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Any toe can develop an ingrown toenail, but they most often affect the big toe.

I think I have an ingrown toenail. What can I do at home?

If you think you’re starting to develop an ingrown toenail, there are things you can do at home to treat it. Early treatment might prevent an infection.

At-home treatment for an ingrown toenail includes:

• Soaking the toe in warm water 3-4 times a day
• Wearing shoes with an adequate amount of space for your toes
• Keeping your feet dry in between soaks

You can also take over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. Dr. Murphy discourages you from performing “bathroom” surgery to fix the nail.

When should I see a podiatrist for ingrown toenails?

Schedule an appointment at Maryland Podiatry Center if your ingrown toenail doesn’t improve within 2-3 days of at-home care or if you have an infected ingrown toenail (toe is warm, red, and oozing fluid).

Anyone with diabetes should skip the at-home care and immediately schedule an appointment at Maryland Podiatry Center.

During your visit, Dr. Murphys reviews your symptoms and medical history and examines your toe. He might take a sample of oozing fluid to check for an infection.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

Dr. Murphy discusses your ingrown toenail and the treatments that can help. If you have an infection, he prescribes antibiotics. Other treatments he could provide for your ingrown toenail include:

• Lifting and separating the toenail from the surrounding skin
• Trimming off the ingrown part of the toenail
• Removing the entire nail

Dr. Murphy also advises how to keep your ingrown toenail from returning.

Don’t suffer through the pain of your ingrown toenail. Call Maryland Podiatry Center today or click the online booking tool for professional help.