How to Get Rid of a Painful Ingrown Toenail and Prevent Serious Infections
A painfully red and swollen toe makes wearing closed-toe shoes miserable. And when a jagged nail edge pierces your skin, you need to act fast before a serious infection sets in. Clifton Foot & Ankle Center has been helping folks handle this painful problem for years, so we’re sharing some of that experience in the following blog. Keep reading to learn why ingrown toenails pop up and how to handle them, courtesy of our expert team.
Why Your Toenails Keep Growing Inward
Most people assume they are just unlucky, but specific daily habits usually cause ingrown toenails.
- Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow directly into the surrounding flesh.
- If you combine improper trimming with tight dress shoes or narrow athletic cleats, you are pressing that sharp nail edge deeper into your sensitive skin.
- Once the skin is broken, bacteria have a direct pathway to cause an infection.
The Dangers of Bathroom Surgery
When your toe starts throbbing, your first instinct might be to grab a pair of clippers and dig the nail out yourself. You should never attempt this.
- Trying to pry the nail out at home often leaves a small, jagged spike of keratin buried deep in the tissue.
- This creates an open wound in an area exposed to sweat and bacteria, significantly increasing your risk of complications from untreated ingrown toenails.
- Ignoring the pain is just as dangerous. A minor irritation can rapidly escalate into a severe infection that spreads to the underlying bone, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
- Avoiding painful consequences means recognizing when soaking your foot is no longer enough and stepping away from the nail clippers.
When to Seek Professional Relief in Clifton
If you notice extreme redness, swelling, warmth, or pus draining from the side of your toe, you need professional intervention.
You do not have to spend your week limping around Passaic County in pain.
We can safely and quickly remove the offending border of the nail right here in our office.
- The procedure is highly effective and relieves the pressure almost instantly thanks to local anesthesia.
- For patients who struggle with recurring issues, we can even apply a specialized chemical to the nail root to ensure that painful section of the nail never grows back.
Knowing how to deal with painful ingrown toenails is easy when you have a medical expert on your side. If your toe is throbbing and making it impossible to walk comfortably, contact Clifton Foot and Ankle Center today.
For more foot care facts and advice, consult Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Fairfax County, Virginia, about any podiatric concerns you’re facing. Set up an appointment today to find relief.
