If you’ve been struggling with an ingrown toenail, you’re probably wondering how to fix ingrown toenail permanently. At Leading Health Podiatry, we’re here to help you understand the causes and the best options for lasting relief. Let’s dive in!
What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Here are some common causes:
Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow inward.
Tight Shoes: Wearing shoes that squeeze your toes can put pressure on your nails and cause them to grow in the wrong direction.
Injury: Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it can push the nail into the skin.
Genetics: Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails due to the shape or thickness of their nails.
If you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail, don’t worry! There are plenty of solutions—both at home and with professional care—that can help you fix it permanently.
How to Fix Ingrown Toenail Permanently: Options for Treatment
At Leading Health Podiatry, we offer several ways to fix ingrown toenails, whether you’re looking for home remedies or need a more professional approach. Here’s a breakdown of both options:
At-Home Solutions: Simple Fixes for Mild Cases
If your ingrown toenail is mild, there are a few things you can try at home to relieve the discomfort and prevent it from getting worse. However, if you’re not seeing improvement, it’s time to call us!
Soak in Warm Salt Water: Soak your foot in warm salt water for 15-20 minutes a few times a day. The salt helps reduce swelling and can draw out any infection.
Proper Nail Trimming: Trim your toenails straight across (not too short!) to avoid encouraging the nail to grow into the skin.
Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Avoid tight shoes or anything that puts pressure on the toe. Opt for sandals or shoes with plenty of room for your toes.
Cotton or Dental Floss Technique: Gently place a small piece of cotton or dental floss between the nail and the skin to encourage proper growth. Be cautious and don’t force anything if it feels painful.
Clinic Treatments: Professional Solutions for Lasting Relief
If the ingrown toenail persists or is causing significant pain, it’s time to visit Leading Health Podiatry. Our expert podiatrists can offer more advanced treatments to fix your ingrown toenail permanently:
Partial Nail Removal: For less severe cases, we may carefully remove the offending portion of the nail using a sterilised and specialised tool. This is done without the need for a needle or local anesthetics, and our highly trained podiatrists perform this procedure pain-free. It’s a quick and effective way to resolve your ingrown toenail issue without the need for extensive surgery.
Matrixectomy (Ingrown Toenail Surgery): If the ingrown toenail is more persistent, we may recommend a matrixectomy. This procedure is done under local anesthetic in our clinic. During the surgery, we apply phenol to the nail matrix (the root of the nail) to stop the offending portion of the nail from growing back. This results in a narrower nail but ensures you won’t suffer from future ingrown toenails. Learn more about the process of surgery here.
“At Leading Health Podiatry, we offer needle-free injections for those with needle phobia, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free treatment experience without the worry of needles.”Antibiotics for Infection: If your ingrown toenail is infected, we’ll advise you to see your GP to determine if antibiotics are needed to clear up the infection and prevent further complications.
When to Call a Podiatrist
If your ingrown toenail isn’t improving or if it becomes infected, it’s best to seek professional treatment. Look out for signs like:
Increased redness or swelling
Pus or drainage
Severe pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter treatments
Difficulty walking due to the discomfort
At Leading Health Podiatry, we’re always here to help! If you’re experiencing these symptoms or if you want to chat with one of our expert podiatrists, give us a call. We can guide you through the best treatment options for your specific situation.
Final Thoughts
How to fix an ingrown toenail permanently doesn’t have to be a mystery! Whether you start with home remedies or come in for professional treatment, there are plenty of ways to get relief and prevent future problems.
Remember, if you’re having trouble or if things don’t improve, we’re just a call away. At Leading Health Podiatry, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward—literally!
