An ingrown toenail can affect your ability to wear shoes and cause a great deal of pain when you walk. To find the relief you need, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Jeffrey Hammond, DPM, at Hammond Foot and Ankle in Provo, Utah, has the expertise and experience to treat your toenail and help it heal. If you have an ingrown toenail, don’t delay. Make an appointment by phone or online today.
An ingrown toenail develops when the border of your nail grows into the skin around it, causing redness, pain, and potential infection. This often happens to the big toe and can make even the simplest activities, like walking or wearing shoes, painful.
At Hammond Foot and Ankle, Dr. Hammond understands the discomfort and inconvenience that an ingrown toenail can cause. He and his team understand this common condition, from its causes to effective treatments and preventive measures.
Several factors contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail, such as:
If you suffer from an ingrown toenail, reach out to Hammond Foot and Ankle.
At Hammond Foot and Ankle, Dr. Hammond is a skilled podiatrist offering various treatment options to relieve discomfort.
In mild cases, proper nail care and soaking the foot in warm water can help gently lift the ingrown edge. More severe cases might require carefully lifting the nail, draining any infection, and prescribing antibiotics.
A partial nail avulsion might be recommended in recurrent cases, where a portion of the nail is removed to prevent future ingrowth.
Prevention is key to avoiding the pain of ingrown toenails. Start by trimming your nails straight across and not too short, allowing the edges to extend slightly beyond the skin.
Choose shoes with enough room for your toes, and avoid tight footwear. If you're prone to sweaty feet, keep them dry and use foot powder to reduce your risk. If you're an athlete or engage in activities that put repeated pressure on your feet, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and take breaks to rest your feet.
Proper foot care is essential to your overall well-being. If you're experiencing the discomfort of an ingrown toenail, contact Hammond Foot and Ankle for expert care and guidance by calling or booking an appointment online today.