Ingrown Toenails

Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico

Podiatrists & Foot and Ankle Surgeons located in Albuquerque, NM, Rio Rancho, NM, South Valley, NM, Edgewood, NM & Grants, NM

Trimming your nails incorrectly can lead to pain or an infection from ingrown toenails. At Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico, with locations in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, South Valley, Edgewood, and Grants, New Mexico, the experienced podiatrists offer in-office services, including outpatient surgery, to treat ingrown toenails. The providers offer resources for nail trimming and other foot hygiene practices to keep your feet and nails healthy. If you have pain or signs of infection in your toenail, call the office nearest you or request an appointment online today.

Ingrown Toenails Q & A

What are ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails describe a condition where your toenail begins growing into the surrounding skin. A common condition, ingrown toenails can result from cutting your nails improperly, trauma to your nail, or underlying genetic factors.

While in the early stages, an ingrown toenail may cause you only some mild discomfort. However, if left untreated, an ingrown toenail can become painful and lead to an infection.

What are the symptoms of ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails can cause pain and redness in the affected toe. You may also have swelling, and the area around your nail may feel warm.

As the toenail grows into your skin, it can allow bacteria to enter and lead to an infection, which worsens your pain and triggers additional health complications. You may find it difficult to stay physically active because of the pain.

When an ingrown toenail becomes serious enough to interfere with your mobility or quality of life, or if you suspect you have an infection, schedule a diagnostic evaluation with the team at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico.

If you have an ingrown toenail and an underlying disease, like diabetes, it’s important that you request an evaluation immediately to prevent complications and infection.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

Treating an ingrown toenail that hasn’t yet broken the surrounding skin typically involves soaking your feet to soften the nail before cutting it. Your Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico provider may recommend over-the-counter medications to ease pain and swelling.

If you have an infection, your podiatrist prescribes an antibiotic to clear it. They also cut your nail properly or use a chemical to destroy the nail cells.

In some cases, especially if you have recurrent ingrown toenails, outpatient surgery is necessary to remove part or all of your nail. The experts at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico also offer laser treatments to remove the nail plate, so tougher skin will grow to prevent future ingrown toenails.

The team provides resources to ensure you keep your foot clean and dry. You should also wear shoes that are wide enough to prevent pressure on your foot and toes.

If you suspect you have an infection or need help managing recurrent ingrown toenails, call the Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico location nearest you or request an appointment online today.