Ingrown Toenail

My skin is growing around my nail. Is it an ingrown toenail?

It’s likely. An ingrown toenail occurs when your nail grows into the skin around your nail instead of away from your toe. 

Ingrown nails can occur on any of your toes, but they’re most common on the big toe. As the nail grows further into your skin, it increases the risk of infection and mobility problems.

What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail?

Ingrown toenail symptoms include:

• Swelling
• Toe pain
• Red or darkened skin
• Blood or pus oozing out of the toe

Your toe might feel hot or be sensitive to touch, depending on the severity of the ingrowth.

Should I see a foot and ankle specialist about an ingrown toenail?

Yes. Make an appointment with the Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute team if you have an ingrown toenail that doesn’t improve within a few days. That’s particularly true if you have diabetes or another health problem that affects your circulation. Without treatment, an ingrown toenail increases your risk of infection, gangrene, and amputation.

How does a foot and ankle specialist diagnose an ingrown toenail?

Your Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and examines your toe and toenail. If the skin around your nail is covering the nail or is red and swollen, it’s ingrown. 

Your provider might order X-rays if they’re concerned about an infection. X-rays help determine how far the nail grows into your skin and play an essential role in guiding treatment.

How does a podiatrist treat an ingrown toenail?

The Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute team treats ingrown toenails using a conservative and evidence-based approach. They might suggest:

• Wearing roomier shoes or sandals
• Covering the nail with antibiotic cream and a bandage
• Soaking your toe in warm water several times daily
• Placing a splint to guide the nail away from your skin
• Partially removing the nail

If you regularly get ingrown nails on the same toe and have a medical condition like diabetes your provider might recommend removing the nail altogether. This stops the pain and reduces your risk of infection and other complications.

Call the nearest Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute office today to schedule ingrown toenail treatment, or book your appointment online.