Ingrown toenails can cause significant discomfort and even lead to serious complications if not properly treated. At Mitchell Foot & Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails, helping you find relief and prevent future issues. Our team of skilled podiatrists provides comprehensive ingrown toenail treatment tailored to meet your unique needs.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, typically on the big toe. This may result in redness, swelling, and pain. Ingrown toenails often become infected if left untreated, causing further complications that may require more intensive care.
As a leading ingrown toenail specialist in Chicago, IL, we offer expert care to address this condition, helping you restore comfort and mobility as quickly as possible.
Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail
Recognizing the symptoms of an ingrown toenail is crucial to getting timely treatment. The common symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness along the sides of the nail
- Redness or swelling around the affected area
- Inflammation that may extend to the toe joint
- Signs of Infection, such as pus or fluid drainage
- Difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult an ingrown toenail specialist in Chicago, IL to prevent further complications.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can develop due to several factors, including:
- Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can cause the nails to grow into the skin.
- Footwear Choices: Tight shoes or high heels place excessive pressure on the toes, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Injury: Stubbing your toe or other forms of trauma can lead to abnormal nail growth.
- Genetics: Some individuals are more prone to ingrown toenails due to inherited traits like curved toenails.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Not keeping feet clean and dry can encourage nail issues, including ingrown toenails.
Understanding these causes can help in both treatment and preventing ingrown toenails. At Mitchell Foot & Ankle, we provide guidance on proper foot care to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
How Are Ingrown Toenails Treated?
Our team offers several options for ingrown toenail removal in Chicago based on the severity of the condition. Here’s what you can expect from your treatment:
- Assessment and Diagnosis: Our podiatrists will thoroughly evaluate the ingrown toenail to determine the most effective treatment plan.
- Non-Surgical Treatments: For mild cases, we may recommend soaking the foot, using topical antibiotics, or lifting the nail slightly to encourage it to grow correctly.
- Partial Nail Removal: In more severe cases, we carefully remove the edge of the ingrown nail. This procedure, performed under local anesthesia, offers effective relief and minimizes the risk of recurrence.
- Total Nail Removal: For chronic cases, we may recommend a full nail removal. Our team takes a conservative approach, focusing on patient comfort and a swift recovery.
Following ingrown toenail treatment, we provide aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent future ingrown toenails. Our experienced team dedicates itself to helping you achieve lasting relief and improving your foot health.
Trust Mitchell Foot & Ankle for Ingrown Toenail Removal in Chicago
With extensive experience in podiatric care, Mitchell Foot & Ankle is a trusted provider of ingrown toenail removal in Chicago. If you’re dealing with the pain and discomfort of an ingrown toenail, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our specialists are here to provide compassionate, effective treatment options tailored to your needs, ensuring you receive the best possible care.