Ingrown toenails, or onychocryptosis, affect people of all ages when part of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin or nail bed, creating a gateway for bacteria and potential infection. Pain often starts mild but can become severe if an infection occurs, making walking uncomfortable and restricting activities like wearing closed shoes or participating in sports. This condition often causes tenderness, soreness, redness, and sometimes bleeding.
At Realign Podiatry, our podiatrist will begin by evaluating your toenails to determine the most suitable treatment approach. We offer both conservative and surgical treatments tailored to your specific condition.
A. Conservative Treatments: For less severe cases, non-invasive treatments can be highly effective in managing ingrown toenails and promoting healing.
Nail Trimming and Care
Regular, proper nail trimming is essential in preventing ingrown toenails. We will provide guidance on the best techniques to avoid further complications.
2. Nail Bracing
What is Nail Bracing?
Nail bracing is a non-surgical technique designed to reshape the nail as it grows. By using a specialised brace, we can gradually reduce the curvature of the nail, helping it grow properly and avoiding future ingrown toenails. This method is ideal for patients with mild to moderate cases and requires no downtime.
B. Surgical Treatments: For more persistent or severe ingrown toenails, surgical intervention may be necessary. These procedures are highly effective and typically involve minimal recovery time.
What is Partial Nail Avulsion?
This minor surgical procedure involves the removal of the ingrown portion of the nail to relieve pain and prevent future issues. During the procedure, we carefully remove only the affected part of the nail while preserving the rest.
Effectiveness and Recovery:
Partial nail avulsion is a highly effective treatment that often provides long-lasting relief. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities within a few days.
2. Total Nail Avulsion
When is Total Nail Avulsion Necessary?
In more severe cases, where the toenail is extensively deformed and causing pain on both sides, we may recommend a total nail avulsion (TNA). This procedure involves removing the entire toenail to achieve optimal results.
What to Expect:
While this procedure may sound more intense, it is safe and effective in managing ingrown toenails. We’ll ensure you understand the process and provide you with aftercare instructions for a smooth recovery.