Ingrown Toenail

Looking for a Sydney
podiatrist to treat an ingrown
toenail?
We are here for you

What is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, is a common condition frequently seen in the Podiatry & Injury Clinic, the go-to “podiatry clinic in Sydney”. This condition occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the adjacent skin. Though it can affect any toenail, it most commonly occurs in the big toe.

When the toenail pierces the surrounding skin, it results in pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes, an infection. The discomfort can range from mild irritation to severe pain, especially when pressure is applied to the affected toe. In some severe cases, it can cause difficulty in walking and performing daily activities.

Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail:

Incorrect Toenail Trimming: This is the most common cause of ingrown toenails. Cutting your toenails too short or not straight across may cause the nail to grow into the surrounding skin.

Ill-Fitting Footwear: Shoes that are too tight or socks and stockings that don’t fit well can press your skin against the toenail, causing it to grow into the skin.

Foot Trauma: An injury to your toe, such as stubbing your toe, can cause an ingrown toenail. Athletes, particularly those involved in activities that put a lot of pressure on the toes like soccer or ballet, are at increased risk.

Genetics: Some people have naturally curved or thick toenails that are more likely to grow into the skin.

Improper Foot Hygiene: Poor foot hygiene and excessive sweating can make your skin soft, making it easier for the nail to pierce the skin.

Understanding these causes is a crucial part of preventing and treating ingrown toenails. At the Podiatry & Injury Clinic, your preferred “Sydney podiatrist”, we take the time to educate our patients about their conditions and provide personalised treatment plans for effective relief.

Why Choose Us

At the Podiatry & Injury Clinic, we don’t just treat conditions – we treat people. Our Sydney podiatrists understand that each individual’s situation is unique, and so should be their treatment. We focus on creating personalised treatment plans aimed at alleviating your discomfort and promoting healing.

Ingrown Toenails Gone

Our comprehensive approach to treating Ingrown Toenails sets us apart as a trusted Sydney podiatrist. From thorough examination and diagnosis to custom-tailored treatment plans, we take each step meticulously to ensure the best possible outcomes.

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If you suffer from any foot condition or experience pain, come and see our friendly experts at the Podiatry and Injury Clinic

Our Sydney podiatrist is expert at diagnosing and fixing Ingrown Toenails, and helping you recover from any related injuries.

Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail

Recognising the symptoms of an ingrown toenail early on can help you seek timely treatment and prevent complications. Some common signs include:

Pain and tenderness in your toe along one or both sides of the nail
Redness around your toenail
Swelling of your toe around the nail
An infection of the tissue around your toenail, indicated by pus or bleeding
Overgrowth of skin around the affected nail

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially signs of infection, don’t hesitate to visit the Podiatry & Injury Clinic, the reliable “podiatry clinic in Sydney”

Complications of an Ingrown Toenail

While an ingrown toenail might seem like a minor issue, if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, particularly for people with diabetes or poor circulation. The infection can spread to the underlying bone, leading to a serious bone infection. The skin can also start to grow over the ingrown toenail, a condition known as hypergranulation.

How to Prevent an Ingrown Toenail

Preventing an ingrown toenail is often a matter of self-care and involves the following steps:

Trim your nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
Wear shoes that fit properly and avoid shoes that press your toes together.
Protect your feet by wearing appropriate footwear in areas where you might injure your foot.
Check your feet regularly for signs of trouble, especially if you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation.

However, if you are already struggling with an ingrown toenail, the experts at Podiatry & Injury Clinic, your trusted “Sydney podiatrist”, are here to help.

How is an ingrown toenail treated at the Podiatry & Injury Clinic?

Treatment can vary depending on the severity of the ingrown toenail. For minor cases, our podiatrists may recommend a technique called “nail spicule removal” where the offending piece of nail is removed. For severe or recurrent ingrown toenails, a minor surgical procedure under local anaesthetic might be performed to permanently prevent the ingrown portion of the nail from growing back.

How long does it take to recover from an ingrown toenail treatment?

Recovery time can vary based on the treatment method used and the severity of the condition. Generally, patients can resume normal activities within a few days after treatment, although it might take a few weeks for the toenail area to completely heal.

Can I prevent ingrown toenails from recurring?

Yes, by following proper foot care practices such as appropriate nail trimming, wearing correctly fitting footwear, and maintaining good foot hygiene, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an ingrown toenail recurrence.