Ingrown toenails occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. They often develop due to improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, injury, or genetic predisposition. Common symptoms include tenderness along the nail borders, swelling, severe cases, drainage of pus, and overgrowth of skin around the nail.
At Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute, Dr. Nathan Judd provides expert care for ingrown toenails in Butte, Anaconda, and Dillon, MT, and serving Bozeman, MT. Their treatment begins with a thorough examination to assess the severity of the condition. They may recommend conservative measures such as soaking the foot in warm water, wearing comfortable shoes, and proper nail trimming techniques for acute cases. In more severe or recurrent cases, they might perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part or all of the affected nail.
When to See a Podiatrist for Ingrown Toenails
Seek the expertise of a podiatrist for ingrown toenails under several circumstances. Persistent pain, especially when accompanied by swelling, redness, or tenderness around the toenail, indicates the need for professional assessment. These symptoms often signify an ingrown toenail that may lead to infection if you leave the nail untreated.
Individuals with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or immune deficiencies are particularly vulnerable to complications from ingrown toenails. For them, any signs of inflammation or infection around the toenail should prompt an immediate visit to a podiatrist to prevent further health risks.
A podiatrist provides specialized treatment options tailored to the severity and recurrence of ingrown toenails in Bozeman, MT. These may include safely trimming or removing the offending portion of the nail to alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of future occurrences. If infection is present, the podiatrist can administer appropriate antibiotics and offer guidance on preventive measures.
Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute Treats Ingrown Toenails
The Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute employs a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails, ensuring effective relief and prevention for their patients. Diagnosis begins with a detailed examination where podiatrists assess the nail and surrounding tissue for signs of inflammation, pain, or infection. They may use imaging techniques like X-rays to evaluate the extent of the ingrown nail and to rule out any underlying bone involvement.
Treatment at the institute typically starts with conservative measures such as soaking the foot in warm water, gently lifting the nail, and placing cotton or dental floss under the edge to encourage proper growth away from the skin. If necessary, the podiatrists may trim or remove the ingrown portion of the nail under local anesthesia to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence.
Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. Treat ingrown toenails to keep enjoying life to the fullest. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Nathan Judd at Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute Butte, Anaconda, and Dillon, MT, and serving Bozeman, MT, call (406) 782-2278.