What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail is a condition commonly treated by the podiatrists at Gold Coast Foot Centres. Ingrown toenails occur commonly, but not exclusively, in one or both sides of the big toe nail where the nail edge pushes into the surrounding skin.  This can cause pain and irritation to the skin, and can often lead to infection if left untreated.

What causes an ingrown toenail?

There are a few common causes for ingrown toenails:

–       Incorrect trimming technique

–       Trauma to the toe (stubbing your toe)

–       Tight fitting shoes

–       Poor foot hygiene

–       Picking at toenails

–       Fungal infections

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of ingrown toenails include:

–       Pain around the edge of the nail

–       Redness and swelling around the nail

–       Clear/ yellow discharge

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are simple to treat if treated early. Once an ingrown toenail becomes red, swollen and infected it becomes a lot more difficult to treat. For this reason it is best to consult with one of our podiatrists as soon as you experience discomfort. It is not recommended that you treat your own nail if you suspect an ingrown toenail as incorrect trimming technique and unsterilized instruments can lead to further infection and pain.

When the ingrown toenail is not too serious, our podiatrists can quickly and painlessly remove the offending nail spike. This simple procedure is completed in our clinics using a special instrument to trim the nail and will reduce your pain immediately.

For more severe or reoccurring ingrown toenail cases a safe and effective procedure can be completed in our clinics. This is called a partial nail avulsion and can provide a more permanent solution for ingrown toenails. Our podiatrists use local anesthetic so no pain is felt throughout the procedure.  Patients only require the rest of the day off work, and can return to work the next day.

For more information on how Gold Coast Foot Centre Podiatrist can help you with your ingrown toe nail, visit Nelson or Ben for a consult at either our Runaway Bay or Burliegh clinics. Phone 07 5500 6470 to book.