Ingrown Toenails

Welcome to McVay Foot & Ankle, your premier destination for comprehensive foot care in Colorado Springs. We understand that dealing with ingrown toenails can be a painful and frustrating experience. We will explore why ingrown toenails happen, how to recognize them, effective treatments both at home and professionally, prevention tips, and the specialized ingrown toenail care we offer at our Colorado Springs office.

Why Ingrown Toenails Happen and How to Recognize Them

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail, usually the big toe, grows into the adjacent skin instead of over it. This misdirection of growth often leads to pain, swelling, and redness around the affected toenail. Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails:

Improper Toenail Trimming: One of the leading causes of ingrown toenails is improper toenail trimming. Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.

Tight-Fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow can compress the toes, forcing the nails to grow into the skin.

Inherited Toenail Shape: Genetics plays a role in the shape and structure of our toenails. Some individuals may inherit toenails that are more prone to ingrown.

Kid teenager bare feet with a bandage on a toe, wounded toe or ingrown nail first aid

Recognizing ingrown toenails involves paying attention to specific symptoms

Pain and Tenderness: Ingrown toenails are often accompanied by pain and tenderness around the affected area.
Redness and Swelling: The surrounding skin may become red and swollen as a result of the nail digging into the flesh.
Signs of Infection: If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to infection, characterized by pus, increased redness, and warmth.

Ingrown Toenail Treatment – Home and Professional Care

Home Remedies

For mild cases, at-home care may be sufficient. Here are some effective home remedies:

Warm Soaks: Soaking your foot in warm water can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Proper Toenail Trimming: Trim your toenails straight across to prevent further ingrowth.
Comfortable Footwear: Wear shoes that provide ample room for your toes, reducing pressure on the affected area.

Professional Treatment

When home remedies prove insufficient, seeking professional care is crucial. At McVay Foot & Ankle, our experienced team offers a range of treatments:

Toenail Lifting: Lifting the ingrown edge of the toenail can provide relief and allow proper healing.
Partial Toenail Removal: In more severe cases, removing a portion of the toenail may be necessary to prevent recurrence.
Antibiotics: If there’s evidence of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to control the spread.

Our skilled podiatrists will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate course of action based on the severity and persistence of your ingrown toenail.

Ingrown Toenail Prevention Tips

Preventing ingrown toenails is essential for long-term foot health. Consider the following tips to minimize the risk of ingrowth:

Proper Toenail Trimming: Trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges.
Choose Appropriate Footwear: Wear shoes that provide enough space for your toes, reducing pressure on the toenails.
Good Foot Hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent infection.
Regular Foot Inspections: Check your feet regularly for signs of ingrown toenails or other foot issues.

Professional Ingrown Toenail Care in Colorado Springs

If you’re in need of professional care for ingrown toenails in Colorado Springs, McVay Foot & Ankle is your trusted partner. Our team of dedicated podiatrists is committed to providing compassionate and effective solutions tailored to your unique needs.

To schedule an appointment, simply give us a call at (719) 266-5000. Our friendly team members are ready to assist you. If you prefer, you can also connect with us online by using the contact form on our website.

Ingrown toenails can significantly impact your daily life, but with the right care and attention, relief is within reach. Trust McVay Foot & Ankle for professional and caring solutions to help you step comfortably on the path to recovery. Our mission is to ensure your feet are not just pain-free but also in optimal health for the long haul.

Don’t let ingrown toenails limit your mobility and well-being. Contact McVay Foot & Ankle today, and let us guide you toward a future with happy and healthy feet.

Note: Please do not use the contact form to send extensive or Protected Health Information (PHI). Please phone our office instead.

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8580 Scarborough Dr., Ste 120
Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm

*Office is closed from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM for lunch

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P: 719-266-5000
F: 719-266-6596

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