Why You Should See a Podiatrist for an Ingrown Toenail

admin

As we go about our daily activities, we often take our feet for granted. However, when an ingrown toenail strikes, it can quickly become a painful and bothersome condition that can affect our quality of life. While some may attempt to treat an ingrown toenail at home, it’s crucial to understand that seeing a qualified healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist, is the best course of action to address this common foot ailment.

What are ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the skin surrounding the nail, leading to discomfort, pain, redness, and inflammation. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper nail trimming, tight shoes, trauma, genetic predisposition, and fungal infections [1]. In severe cases, ingrown toenails can become infected, leading to more serious complications if left untreated.

Why you should see a podiatrist?

One of the primary reasons why you should see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail is that they are experts in foot and ankle care. Podiatrists are specially trained medical professionals who focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle conditions. They have in-depth knowledge of the anatomy, biomechanics, and function of the feet, making them well-equipped to assess and treat ingrown toenails with precision and expertise.

Podiatrists are also equipped with the right tools and techniques to manage ingrown toenails effectively. They can carefully trim the nail and remove the embedded portion without causing further damage to the nail or surrounding skin. They can also provide guidance on proper nail care, footwear recommendations, and preventive measures to help prevent recurrence [2]. Attempting to perform DIY procedures at home, such as digging into the nail or cutting it too short, can lead to further complications and may not effectively resolve the issue.

Furthermore, podiatrists can accurately diagnose and treat any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the development of ingrown toenails. For instance, fungal infections can weaken the nail structure, making it more susceptible to ingrown toenails. Podiatrists can identify and treat such infections to prevent recurrent ingrown toenails [3]. They can also identify other risk factors, such as abnormal foot mechanics or structural abnormalities, and provide appropriate interventions to address them.

In addition to their expertise, podiatrists can also provide tailored care based on each individual’s unique needs. They can assess the severity of the ingrown toenail, taking into consideration factors such as the presence of infection, severity, and medical history. Based on this assessment, they can provide personalized treatment plans, which may include conservative measures such as soaking the foot in warm water with Epsom salts, applying antibiotic ointments, or using splints to lift the nail. In more severe cases, they may perform a minor surgical procedure, such as partial nail avulsion, to permanently remove the ingrown portion of the nail [4].

Ingrown toenails complications

It’s important to note that attempting to self-treat or ignore an ingrown toenail can lead to complications. Infections can worsen and spread, leading to cellulitis, abscesses, or even sepsis, which can be life-threatening in severe cases [5]. Ingrown toenails can also cause chronic pain, discomfort, and difficulty with walking or wearing shoes, significantly impacting one’s daily activities and quality of life. Seeking prompt and appropriate care from a podiatrist can help prevent these complications and ensure effective treatment.

Moreover, seeing a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail can save you time and money in the long run. While it may be tempting to resort to DIY treatments or over-the-counter remedies, they may only provide temporary relief or mask the underlying issue. In contrast, a podiatrist can provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment, addressing the root cause of the ingrown toenail and providing long-term solutions. By receiving proper care from a podiatrist early on, you can potentially avoid the need for more invasive procedures or prolonged treatment later, which may end up costing you more time and money.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to ingrown toenails, it’s crucial to seek professional care from a podiatrist. They possess the knowledge, expertise, and specialized tools to accurately diagnose and treat ingrown toenails, as well as any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the issue. They can provide personalized care based on your unique needs and help prevent complications, such as infections or chronic pain. By seeking timely and appropriate care from a podiatrist, you can ensure effective treatment and maintain the health and well-being of your feet.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of an ingrown toenail, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a trusted podiatrist. Take the first step towards resolving the issue and restoring comfort to your feet. Your feet deserve the best care, and a podiatrist is the right healthcare professional to provide it.

Dr. Alan MacGill is a nationwide recognized podiatrist seeing patients in South Florida. For appointments, call at (954) 906-9272.

References

1. Mayo Clinic. (2019). Ingrown toenails. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-toenails/symptoms-causes/syc-20355903
2. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. (2019). Ingrown toenail. Retrieved from https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/ingrown-toenail
3. WebMD. (2021). Ingrown toenail. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ingrown-toenail
4. American Podiatric Medical Association. (2018). Ingrown toenails. Retrieved from https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=1529
5. American Family Physician. (2011). Ingrown toenails: diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/afp/2011/0215/p303.htm