Ingrown Toenail Treatment | Expert Podiatrist in Seattle

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This condition often leads to pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. Though it typically affects the big toe, it can happen with any toenail. Ingrown toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, such as improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or injury to the toe.

If not treated in a timely manner, ingrown toenails can result in chronic pain, repeated infections, and other complications. That’s why early intervention is key to resolving the issue before it escalates into something more serious.

Common Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

If you’re wondering whether you might have an ingrown toenail, it’s important to be on the lookout for these common signs:

• Pain or tenderness near the edge of the toenail, which may worsen when pressure is applied (like when wearing shoes).
• Swelling and redness around the affected area.
• Visible infection, including pus or drainage, especially if the nail has penetrated deeply into the skin.
• Thickening of the toenail in severe cases, where the body attempts to protect the toe from further injury—can also signal an underlying fungal infection.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Ingrown toenail removal Seattle is a quick and straightforward treatment, and getting help early can save you from long-term discomfort or a prolonged recovery.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

There are several potential causes of ingrown toenails, and understanding these factors can help you avoid them in the future. Common causes include:

1. Improper Nail Trimming

Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. It’s important to cut toenails straight across to avoid this problem.

2. Tight Shoes or Ill-Fitting Footwear

Wearing shoes that are too tight, too narrow, or don’t offer enough toe space can put excessive pressure on your toenails. This pressure can force the nail into the skin, causing it to become ingrown over time.

3. Trauma or Injury to the Toe

Dropping something heavy on your toe, stubbing your toe, or engaging in activities that cause repeated stress on the toe can trigger ingrown toenails. These injuries can distort the nail and push it into the surrounding skin. This trauma can also lead to fungal infections.

4. Genetics

Some individuals are genetically predisposed to developing ingrown toenails due to the natural shape or curvature of their toenails. If your family members have experienced this issue, you may be at a higher risk.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails at The Wellness Firm Seattle | Podiatrist and Naturopathic Medicine

At The Wellness Firm Seattle | Podiatrist and Naturopathic Medicine, we take a conservative, non-invasive approach to treating ingrown toenails, reserving surgical intervention for extreme cases. Our team, led by Dr. Alexis, is here to ensure your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible.

1. Conservative Care: The First Step

In most cases, an ingrown toenail can be treated without surgery. Dr. Alexis will begin by assessing the severity of your condition. If the toenail hasn’t become infected, she may recommend conservative treatments, such as:

• Soaking the foot in warm water to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Lifting the edge of the toenail (a technique that gently separates the nail from the surrounding skin, allowing it to grow out properly).
• Topical antibiotics to treat any early-stage infection.
• Pain relievers, such as over-the-counter options, to reduce discomfort.

For many patients, these treatments are enough to resolve the issue and prevent it from returning. However, if the toenail becomes deeply ingrown or infected, additional intervention may be required.

2. Ingrown Toenail Removal: A Solution for Severe Cases

In more severe cases, the ingrown toenail may need to be partially or completely removed. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you’ll be completely comfortable during the treatment. Dr. Alexis will carefully remove the portion of the toenail that’s causing pain and pressure, ensuring that the area is properly cleaned and bandaged for optimal healing.

In some instances, the entire toenail may need to be removed. Once the nail is removed, Dr. Alexis will offer guidance on how to care for the area and monitor the healing process to ensure that no further issues develop.

3. Preventing Future Ingrown Toenails: Custom Orthotics
   If you frequently experience ingrown toenails or have recurring issues, custom orthotics may be a crucial component of your treatment plan. Improper foot mechanics, such as excessive pressure on certain areas of your feet, can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.

Custom orthotics are designed to redistribute pressure and correct alignment issues, which can help prevent future toenail problems. If you’ve had multiple ingrown toenails, these personalized orthotics might be the key to reducing the risk of future occurrences.

To learn more about how custom orthotics can help, schedule an appointment with us today.

4. Laser Nail Therapy for Fungal Infections
   In some cases, ingrown toenails are complicated by fungal infections. Fungal infections can make the toenail more prone to growing into the surrounding skin. At The Wellness Firm Seattle | Podiatrist and Naturopathic Medicine, we offer laser nail therapy, a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted laser energy to eliminate the fungal infection at the source.

Laser therapy is a quick and painless procedure that can help restore the health of your toenails and prevent future ingrown nail issues caused by infection. This innovative treatment is particularly effective for patients who have recurring ingrown toenails due to fungal growth.

Learn more about laser nail therapy here.

5. Post-Treatment Care and Maintenance

After your ingrown toenail treatment, it’s crucial to follow Dr. Alexis’s post-care instructions. Proper healing is key to reducing the chances of further issues. General aftercare may include:

• Keeping the area clean and dry to prevent infection.
• Avoiding tight shoes that could put pressure on the toenail.
• Allowing the toenail to grow back properly, following the guidelines for trimming and maintaining nail health.

By following these instructions and attending follow-up appointments, you’ll reduce the risk of experiencing ingrown toenails in the future.

The Dangers of Ignoring an Ingrown Toenail: Worst-Case Scenario

An untreated ingrown toenail can go from a minor irritation to a serious medical emergency if left unchecked. While most cases are easily managed, neglecting a severely ingrown toenail—especially one that becomes infected—can lead to complications such as:

1. Severe Infection (Paronychia & Cellulitis)
   When bacteria invade the inflamed skin around the toenail, it can lead to a painful infection. If left untreated, this infection can spread beyond the toe and into deeper layers of skin, resulting in cellulitis—a serious condition requiring antibiotics or even hospitalization.
2. Abscess Formation
   If the infection worsens, a pus-filled abscess may develop beneath or around the nail. This pocket of infection often requires a minor surgical procedure to drain, along with antibiotics to prevent further spread.
3. Bone Infection (Osteomyelitis)
   In extreme cases, the infection can penetrate beyond the soft tissue and reach the bone. Osteomyelitis, or a bone infection, is a dangerous condition that can cause long-term damage and, in rare cases, require surgical intervention or amputation.
4. Gangrene & Amputation (for High-Risk Patients)
   For individuals with diabetes, peripheral artery disease, or immune system disorders, an untreated ingrown toenail can turn into a life-threatening issue. Poor circulation impairs healing, increasing the risk of gangrene—a condition where tissue dies due to lack of blood supply. In severe cases, this may require amputation of the affected toe to stop the spread of infection.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails: Tips You Can Follow at Home

While some factors (like genetics) may be outside your control, there are several steps you can take at home to prevent ingrown toenails from occurring:

• Trim your nails properly: Cut toenails straight across and avoid trimming them too short. This reduces the chance of the nail digging into the skin as it grows.
• Wear well-fitting shoes: Choose shoes that offer enough room for your toes. Tight, ill-fitting shoes put pressure on the nails and toes, contributing to the development of ingrown toenails.
• Don’t pick at your toenails: Avoid attempting to trim or dig at an ingrown toenail on your own. This can make the problem worse. Seek professional help if you notice an ingrown toenail.
• Keep your feet clean and dry: Moisture can promote fungal growth, which can lead to ingrown toenails. Keep your feet dry and clean to reduce the risk of infection.

When to Seek Professional Help for Ingrown Toenails

Although some mild ingrown toenail cases can be treated at home, there are times when you should consult with a podiatrist. Consider seeking professional help if:

• Your toenail becomes infected (indicated by pus, redness, or swelling).
• Pain worsens or doesn’t improve after at-home care.
• You have diabetes or other health conditions that affect circulation or immune function, as ingrown toenails can lead to more serious complications in these cases.

If any of these situations apply to you, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with Dr. Alexis for a thorough evaluation and to discuss ingrown toenail removal Seattle.

Locations We Serve

At The Wellness Firm Seattle | Podiatrist and Naturopathic Medicine, we proudly serve patients throughout Seattle and the surrounding areas, including:

• Capitol Hill
• Queen Anne
• University District
• Magnolia
• Northgate
• Bellevue
• Kirkland
• West Seattle
• including the Greater Seattle Area!

No matter where you’re located, Dr. Alexis is here to ensure you get the best care for your feet. She provides expert care in treating ingrown toenails and countless other foot conditions, using the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Take A Step Forward and Schedule Your Appointment Today!

Don’t let an ingrown toenail keep you sidelined. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, or if you simply want to ensure your feet remain in top shape, schedule your appointment with Dr. Alexis at The Wellness Firm Seattle | Podiatrist and Naturopathic Medicine today.

Call us at (206) 707-9112 for more information or contact us today! Let us help you get back to your active lifestyle, free of pain and discomfort.