Ingrown Toenails Treatment Options

An ingrown nail occurs when, as the name suggests, a toenail grows into the adjacent skin, piercing it, often causing inflammation and pain. This is typically a result of improperly fitting shoes that bunch up the toes and create pressure, or they may be due to nails not being cut correctly. You can often treat the condition at home, or at least manage the discomfort, but for professional help, you should always turn to your podiatrist. If you would like to learn more, reach out to Dr. Staci Bogin of Elite Foot & Ankle Clinic in Thornton, CO.

At-Home Care 

It isn't always advisable to treat an ingrown nail on your own. You should turn to your doctor first if it's much too painful or uncomfortable to even attempt it, if the nail is dug in very deeply, or if you suffer from diabetes.

In the early stages, you can often minimize the swelling by soaking your feet throughout the day in warm water. Avoiding constricting shoes during healing is very important as well. It's just as important to prevent the condition from recurring. Opting for sandals until it heals may be the best option, if at all possible.

A common suggestion for dealing with the ingrown nail itself is to use a strip of cotton to dislodge it from the skin so that it can be properly cut. It bears repeating that if this proves too uncomfortable to attempt, you should contact your podiatrist for professional care.

Ingrown Nails Treatment in Thornton, CO

Caring for an ingrown nail is best done early in the condition as the infection can potentially reach the bone and have other severe consequences for those who suffer from diabetes if left untreated.

The earlier you can have your podiatrist examine it, the less invasive the treatment. Once it is very advanced your podiatrist may have to surgically remove the nail, either partially or completely.

So don't endure the discomfort of an ingrown nail any longer, make an appointment today with Dr. Bogin of Elite Foot & Ankle Clinic in Thornton, CO, by dialing (720) 328-2022.