Serving Utah Valley
Find Relief for Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail can be a small problem that causes a lot of pain. This common condition occurs when the edge of a toenail, usually the big toe, grows into the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort, swelling, and a risk of infection. At Hoyal Podiatry in Orem, UT, Dr. James Hoyal provides fast, safe, and effective solutions for ingrown toenails, helping you get back on your feet without pain.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis, typically happens when improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, or an injury forces the nail to curve and grow into the flesh. This can be an extremely painful condition, and if left untreated, it can lead to a serious infection.
Common symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
Pain and tenderness along the side of the toenail.
Redness and swelling of the skin around the nail.
Warmth or a feeling of heat in the affected area.
Pus or fluid drainage from the side of the nail (a sign of infection).
At-Home Care for Ingrown Toenails
For mild cases, you can try these at-home remedies to relieve pain and prevent worsening symptoms:
- Soak your foot: Soak the affected foot in a warm salt water bath for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day. This helps reduce swelling and tenderness.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Avoid shoes that are too tight or cramp your toes. Choose footwear with a wide toe box.
- Proper nail trimming: Always cut your toenails straight across. Don’t round the corners or cut them too short, as this can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
When to See a Podiatrist
It’s crucial to seek professional medical attention for an ingrown toenail if:
- You suspect the toenail is infected (characterized by pus, severe redness, or a foul odor).
- You have diabetes or another condition that affects blood flow to your feet. These conditions put you at a higher risk for serious infections.
- The pain is severe or interferes with your ability to walk.
- The at-home treatments have not provided relief after a few days.
At Hoyal Podiatry, we offer a simple, in-office procedure to safely and painlessly remove the ingrown portion of the nail. In some cases, we may recommend a more permanent solution to prevent the ingrown nail from returning.
Don’t try to fix an ingrown toenail yourself at home by digging at it, as this can lead to further injury and infection.
Ready for pain relief? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Hoyal today for expert diagnosis and treatment.
Ready to Find Relief?
Don’t let foot and ankle pain hold you back any longer. Our experienced podiatrists are here to provide personalized care and effective treatment solutions.