Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a common but painful condition affecting millions of Americans. They usually aren’t serious, but if you have diabetes or poor circulation, ingrown toenails can increase your risk of infection and other problems. At Valley Stream Foot Doctor in Valley Stream, New York, experienced podiatrist Marc Schumann, DPM, provides complete care for ingrown toenails. After an exam, he can make personalized treatment recommendations to help you feel better. Call Valley Stream Foot Doctor to schedule ingrown toenail treatment, or book your appointment online today. 

What are ingrown toenails?

An ingrown toenail occurs when one of your nails grows into the soft skin surrounding its bed instead of away from your toe. When a nail grows into your skin, it causes redness, swelling, and, in some cases, infection.

Most ingrown toenails improve with at-home treatments, but if you have diabetes or another health problem that increases your risk of complications, contact Valley Stream Foot Doctor right away.

What are the symptoms of ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenail symptoms include:

• Pain and tenderness
• Inflamed skin
• Swelling
• Skin discoloration

If the nail becomes infected, it may ooze blood or pus and have a foul odor. 

How are ingrown toenails diagnosed?

Dr. Schumann reviews your medical records and asks about your ingrown nail, including when you first noticed it, the symptoms you’re experiencing, and whether wearing certain shoes worsens them. Next, he examines your toe, checking for redness, swelling, and signs of infection.

A visual exam is usually enough to make a diagnosis, but Dr. Schumann might also order X-rays to see how far the nail extends beneath your skin.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

At Valley Stream Foot Doctor, Dr. Schumann takes an integrative and minimally invasive approach to treating ingrown toenails. He may recommend:

• Lifting the nail with a piece of dental floss or cotton so it grows away from your toe
• Applying tape to the nail to help guide its growth
• Placing a splint underneath the nail so it grows above your skin and away from the bed
• Removing part of the nail (if an infection is present)

Dr. Schumann might suggest removing the nail and underlying tissue completely if you often get ingrown nails on the same toe. Depending on your needs, he might remove the nail with a laser, chemicals, or another method.  

Can I take steps to prevent ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails can’t always be prevented, but certain practices can significantly reduce your risk.

Dr. Schumann recommends trimming your toenails straight across, keeping your toenails at a moderate length, and wearing shoes that give your toes plenty of wiggle room. Likewise, if you have diabetes or poor circulation, inspect your feet daily. Ingrown nails increase the risk of infection, so spotting them early on is crucial. 

Call Valley Stream Foot Doctor to explore ingrown toenail treatments, or book your appointment online today.