Ingrown Toenail Treatment

An ingrown nail is when the nail begins to grow into the skin. This results in redness, swelling and pain. The medical term for this condition is onychocryptosis. There are numerous factors that lead to an ingrown nail, such as:

• Picking your nails
• Incorrect cutting of nails
• Tight fitting footwear and hosiery
• Trauma or injury
• Fungal nail infections
• Conditions that lead to swelling of the foot
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Obesity
• Genetic predisposition

This is a common issue that affects many children and adults.

Treatment of an Ingrown Nail at Bishopstown Podiatry Clinic

What to expect at your appointment

1. A full medical history will be taken
2. The painful digit will be examined
3. The area will be cleansed with a skin disinfectant
4. The spicule of the nail causing the pain will be removed gently.
5. The sulcus will be cleared and cleansed
6. Depending on the severity of the ingrown nail, the appropriate dressing will be applied.

Aftercare

1. Follow your podiatrist’s instructions carefully.
2. You may need antibiotics if there is a severe infection present.
3. Keep dressings dry. If a dressing becomes wet, please remove it. Wet dressings can lead to an infection.
4. Bathe your feet in warm salty water following the removal of dressings.
5. Please attend your follow up appointment to ensure the ingrown nail is resolved fully.

Preventative

1. Cut your nails straight across. Do not attempt to cut down the sulci
2. Avoid picking nails
3. Avoid tight fitting footwear and socks

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