Ingrown Toenails: Why Seeking a Podiatrist is Essential for Relief and Prevention

Ingrown Toenails: Why Seeking a Podiatrist is Essential for Relief and Prevention

Ingrown toenails are not only painful but can also lead to infections and long-term complications if left untreated. While they can occur at any age, they are more common in active individuals, those with foot injuries, or people who frequently wear tight shoes. If you’re suffering from the discomfort of an ingrown toenail, it's important to seek professional help, especially from a podiatrist. At Total Podiatry of SWFL, Dr. Tribuiani provides expert care at our Naples and Estero locations to ensure your feet are healthy and pain-free.

What is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of your toenail grows into the soft skin surrounding it. This can cause redness, swelling, and significant discomfort. In more severe cases, the affected area may become infected, leading to pus, bleeding, and difficulty walking.

Temporary Relief for Ingrown Toenails

While some mild ingrown toenails can be managed at home, recurring or severe cases require professional intervention. A podiatrist can offer several temporary treatments, including:

• Trimming the Nail: Your podiatrist will carefully trim the ingrown portion of the nail to relieve pressure and prevent further irritation.
• Soaking and Antibiotics: For cases involving infection, your doctor may recommend foot soaks and prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and reduce swelling.
• Toe Splints or Packing: In some situations, a small splint or cotton may be placed under the edge of the nail to guide it to grow away from the skin.

These solutions can provide immediate relief and prevent the condition from worsening. However, for those experiencing chronic ingrown toenails, more permanent solutions are available.

Permanent Solutions for Ingrown Toenails

If you suffer from recurring ingrown toenails, temporary fixes may not be enough. Permanent removal options ensure the problem doesn’t come back. At Total Podiatry of SWFL, we specialize in providing permanent relief with minimal discomfort.

• Matrixectomy (Nail Removal): This procedure involves the partial or complete removal of the nail matrix (the tissue responsible for nail growth). After numbing the area, the problematic section of the nail is permanently removed. This treatment is highly effective, preventing the nail from growing back and recurring issues.
• Laser or Chemical Treatments: In some cases, a chemical or laser treatment can be applied to the nail bed to stop regrowth of the problematic portion of the nail.

Both techniques are safe, quick, and can provide long-term relief, allowing you to get back to your daily activities without the ongoing pain of ingrown toenails.

Why You Should See a Podiatrist

Many people attempt to treat ingrown toenails at home, but DIY methods often make the problem worse or lead to infections. A podiatrist can offer specialized care and determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation. At Total Podiatry of SWFL, our skilled team in Naples and Estero is committed to providing the highest quality care.

• Prevent Complications: Infections and deeper tissue damage can develop if ingrown toenails are neglected. A podiatrist ensures proper treatment and prevention.
• Professional Tools: Our office has the right tools and expertise to treat the condition safely and effectively.
• Long-Term Relief: Whether you need temporary relief or a permanent solution, a podiatrist can tailor a treatment plan to your needs.

Trust Total Podiatry of SWFL for Your Foot Health

Don’t let the discomfort of an ingrown toenail impact your daily life. Whether you're dealing with a single painful episode or chronic recurrences, the team at Total Podiatry of SWFL in Naples and Estero can provide relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards pain-free feet!

Total Podiatry of SWFL is here to serve your foot health needs at our convenient Naples and Estero locations. Call us today to learn more!