Ingrown Toenail Specialist

What is an ingrown toenail?

Ingrown toenails are a common condition in which the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh. The result is pain, redness, swelling and, sometimes, an infection. Ingrown toenails usually affect your big toe.

Often you can take care of ingrown toenails on your own. If the pain is severe or spreading, your doctor can take steps to relieve your discomfort and help you avoid complications of ingrown toenails.

If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor blood flow to your feet, you're at greater risk of complications of ingrown toenails.   Call the office today to make an appointment.

How do you get an ingrown toenail?

You may have an ingrown toenail when your nail starts growing into the flesh of your skin, instead of over the top of it. It usually happens in your big toe.

You're more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you have curved or thick nails. An ingrown toenail can also occur if you:

• Have an injury to your toe
• Wear poorly fitting shoes
• Don’t regularly groom your feet
• Cut your toenails too short

In these situations as your nail burrows into your skin, the affected area becomes inflamed. Sometimes an ingrown toenail gets infected, which can be very painful.

When should I see a doctor about an ingrown toenail?

It’s time to see Dr. Tabari if you’re in so much pain that you’re missing work or activities that you enjoy. Let him know if you have:

• Severe pain and tenderness
• Redness and swelling
• Discharge or pus
• Discomfort that seems to be spreading

If you have diabetes or have known circulatory problems, it’s essential to get in to see Dr. Tabari. In these cases, you’re more likely to develop an infection, since your body can’t heal as quickly as it should.

Since an infection can spread quickly, don’t delay getting treatment for your ingrown toenail. Untreated infections from ingrown toenails can lead to permanent bone or soft tissue damage.

What is the treatment for an ingrown toenail?

Treatment involves removing the ingrown part of your toenail and draining any lingering infection. This type of procedure can be uncomfortable, but it's done right in the office.

Most patients experience relief almost immediately. You just need to keep the treated area bandaged for several days and apply a topical medication until your toe heals.

In severe cases, Dr. Tabari may have to remove your toenail entirely. But he lets you know ahead of time exactly what to expect and how to prevent ingrown toenails in the future.

Before your ingrown toenail worsens or gets infected, schedule an appointment at Signature Footcare. You can book your treatment either online or over the phone.