Ingrown Toenail Specialist
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Bailey Griffin, DPM
Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Humble, TX
Ingrown toenails can be both a functional and cosmetic problem. At her offices in Humble, Texas, Bailey Griffin, DPM, provides effective treatments for ingrown toenails and is aware of the more serious possible complications that can arise without the appropriate medical care. A trained podiatrist like Dr. Griffin can help you to take care of your feet and prevent further issues from developing such as a bone infection. Call or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.
Ingrown Toenail Q & A
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the corner or side of your toenail grows in the wrong direction and into your skin and soft flesh. Ingrown toenails are common and generally appear on the large toe but can occur on any toe.
An ingrown toenail can cut into your skin and cause pain, swelling, inflammation, redness, and pus drainage. Many ingrown toenails can resolve on their own, but some more serious cases may lead to a bone infection if not treated appropriately.
Men and women with certain medical conditions like diabetes that have poor blood flow to the feet have an increased risk of the complications of ingrown toenails and can even develop gangrene of the toe.
What causes ingrown toenails?
Some of the factors that can play a role in the development of ingrown toenails include:
- Toenail injury
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Toenails that are unusually curved or shaped
- An oversized nail bed with edges that push into your skin
If you cut your toenails too short or don’t cut them straight across it can contribute to the formation of ingrown toenails as well.
How can I take care of my ingrown toenail at home?
You can take care of your ingrown toenail at home by soaking your feet in warm water for 20 minutes twice daily to decrease swelling and tenderness. You can soften your nail edges by filing and trimming your nails properly.
You can also place bandages or padding around your ingrown toenail to provide protection and comfort.
How are ingrown toenails treated?
When you come in with an ingrown toenail, Dr. Griffin begins with a physical exam.
To treat your ingrown toenail, Dr. Griffin might recommend:
- Prescription antibiotic medication
- Antibiotic soaks
- Pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medications
Dr. Griffin might clip the corner of your toenail for temporary relief. She does this quickly and conveniently in the office without anesthesia.
If you have severe ingrown toenails that are recurring, Dr. Griffin may suggest removing a part of your underlying tissue and nail, generally with a local anesthetic, as an in-office procedure with no downtime afterward. Dr. Griffin might apply a chemical or acid to the nail root to prevent it from returning.
To get rid of your ingrown toenails with the assistance of a skilled podiatrist, call Bailey Griffin, DPM, or use online booking to schedule your appointment today.
