Ingrown Toenails
About Ingrown Toenails
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. They can be painful and lead to infection if not properly managed. Understanding the causes and treatments is essential for your foot health.
Common Causes:
- Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage ingrown toenails.
- Tight Footwear: Shoes that crowd the toes or apply pressure can push the nail into the skin.
- Injury or Trauma: Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it can cause ingrown toenails.
- Hereditary Factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails.
Podiatrists are experts in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails to relieve pain and prevent complications.
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Common Podiatric Treatments:
- Nail Trimming: Your podiatrist can carefully trim the ingrown portion of the nail, relieving pressure and pain.
- Partial Nail Removal: In some cases, removing a portion of the nail may be necessary to prevent recurrence.
- Medication: Antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection is present or at risk of developing.
- Surgical Removal: In severe or chronic cases, your podiatrist may recommend removing the entire nail and applying a chemical to prevent regrowth.
- Wedge Resection: In this procedure, a small wedge of the nail bed is removed to prevent future ingrowth.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails:
You can take steps to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails:
- Trim nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges.
- Wear shoes that fit comfortably and provide adequate space for your toes.
- Protect your feet from injury, especially the toes.
- Maintain good foot hygiene, keeping your feet clean and dry.
- Avoid picking at your toenails or using improper tools for nail care.
Other Services..
General Nail & Foot Care
Routine foot and nail care is essential for preventing issues like ingrown toenails, corns, and calluses. We help keep your feet in top condition with professional trimming, debridement, and treatment of common nail and skin concerns. Ideal for seniors and those with mobility issues.
Sporting Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries from sports can significantly impact your mobility. We diagnose and treat conditions such as heel pain, shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, and stress fractures to get you back in action as soon as possible.
Specific Foot Problems
If you’re experiencing foot pain, swelling, or discomfort, we assess and treat conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, Morton’s neuroma, and arthritis-related foot pain, providing tailored solutions to improve your comfort.
Diabetic Foot Management
People with diabetes are at risk of foot complications due to reduced circulation and sensation. Our diabetic foot care services include regular check-ups, wound management, and preventative care to help avoid serious complications.
Home Visits & Age Care
For those who cannot make it to the clinic, we offer home visits across the Central Coast. This service is particularly beneficial for seniors, DVA Gold Card holders, and individuals with mobility challenges who require ongoing foot care.
Nail Surgery
We provide expert treatment for chronic ingrown toenails, including minor nail surgery when needed. Our gentle procedures help relieve pain and prevent recurring issues.
Paediatric Foot Care
Children’s feet develop rapidly, and early intervention can prevent future problems. We assess and treat common paediatric concerns such as flat feet, growing pains, and gait abnormalities to support healthy development.
Biomechanical Assessments
Custom orthotics and biomechanical assessments help correct foot posture, improve function, and relieve pain from conditions like overpronation, high arches, and sports-related strain.
Paraffin Foot Baths
Paraffin wax therapy is a soothing treatment for dry skin, arthritis, and joint stiffness. The warm wax helps increase circulation, hydrate the skin, and reduce pain in the feet. Ideal for those with arthritis or chronic foot discomfort.
Call today to make an appointment
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