Warmer weather approaching the New Jersey area brings opportunities to show off your feet and toes. Now is the time to treat any nail deformities or conditions you may have. Ingrown toenails are one of the most common nail conditions and are usually seen in the big toe. They can be hereditary or due to improper shoes, incorrect nail care, or fungal nail infections, which can cause the side of the toenail to grow towards the flesh of the toe. This improper nail growth results in pain, inflammation, redness, and sometimes infection.
Treatments
Depending on the severity, sometimes Epsom foot soaks and keeping the area clean and protected can help ease the inflammation and pain. Despite the number of “at home kits you may see at the store, it is best to see an experienced podiatrist to remove your ingrown toenails. A podiatrist will not only recommend the best treatment plan, but can also prevent infections that may otherwise occur from self-treatment methods. For severe cases of ingrown toenails, surgery may be performed to remove the ingrown nail or even part of the nail bed to prevent it from growing into the flesh.
Prevention
The best way to prevent ingrown toenails is to wear shoes with roomy toe boxes to prevent excessive pressure on the sides of the toes, as well as practicing proper nail care by cutting the nail straight across rather than in a curved fashion.
For ingrown toenail treatment, other nail conditions, and any foot and ankle problems, see a skilled podiatrist like Dr. Russell Samofal at Podiatry Center of New Jersey. Dr. Samofal is board-certified and has extensive experience with all types of podiatric issues including plantar fasciitis, hammertoe, arch problems, ankle pain, and diabetic foot problems. Podiatry Center of New Jersey is conveniently located in Wayne, NJ and serves the surrounding Morris, Passaic, Bergen and Essex counties. Please contact us or call our office at (973) 925-4111 to schedule an appointment today!
