Ingrown toenails are a typical foot condition that can lead to severe pain and discomfort. This is a condition that occurs when the edges of a toenail expand into the skin around it and cause swelling, infection, and, in certain cases extreme pain. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort from an ingrown toenail, you need to see a foot doctor or a an orthopedic surgeon located in Perth who is specialized on foot care. In this blog, we'll discuss the ways a foot surgeon determines the cause and treatment for an ingrown nail, along with information on ingrown toenails in Perth.

What is the Cause of Ingrown Toenails?

Before examining treatments, it is essential to know the reasons behind ingrown toenails. There are a variety of factors that can cause this problem, such as:

1. Poor nail cutting techniques: Cutting toenails too short or rounded edges may stimulate the nail to develop into skin.

2. Close-fitting footwear: Shoes that do not allow enough room for the toes may cause pressure on the toenails, which can lead to a growth spurt.

3. Genetic causes: Certain individuals could have a genetic predisposition growing ingrown toenails due the shape of their toenails.

4. Toe Injuries Injuries to the foot could lead to the development of the nail in a different way.

5. Fungal Infections In certain cases an infection caused by fungal bacteria can cause nail issues that cause growth.

The signs of the Ingrown Toenail

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of an ingrown nail is vital to be able to intervene promptly. The most common signs are:

• The tender and painful side of the toenail.
• There is swelling and redness around the affected region
• The presence of pus or drainage which indicates an infection
• Shoes that are difficult to wear due to discomfort

If untreated If left untreated, an ingrown nail can cause more severe complications, including abscesses or infections.

A Foot Surgeon can diagnose a problem.

If you go to an orthopedic specialist in foot surgery Perth for an ingrown nail the first step is an extensive exam the foot. The doctor will examine the nail and its surrounding skin and examine your symptoms and inquire about your medical background. This assists the foot surgeon to determine the degree of the problem and then determine the best treatment option.

Treatment Options for Toenails that are Ingrown

A treatment plan for an ingrown nail is dependent on the extent. Here are a few common methods that a doctor of foot may employ:

1. Treatments for the Conservative Treatments

In mild cases, gentle treatments could be enough. This includes:

• Warm Baths Bathing your feet in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes a day can reduce pain and inflammation.

• Dental floss or cotton: Gently placing a small amount of floss or cotton beneath the edge that is ingrown of the nail may assist in allowing it to grow over the skin. This technique is best done by a doctor for foot care to avoid causing further damage.

• Topical Antibiotics When there's signs of infection, your foot surgeon can prescribe topical antibiotics to combat the infection.

2. Partial Nail Vulsion

In more serious instances, a foot surgeon could suggest the partial nail avulsion technique. This involves:

• Nail removal: A doctor is going to make the toe numb with local anesthetics and then take off the area of the nail that's growing.

• Surgery: After removing the part that is ingrown, the physician might make the bed of nails by using an agent chemical (such such as phenol) to stop that the nail grows again to the skin.

• Stitching Sometimes the need for stitches is necessary to allow the area to heal correctly.

The procedure is usually swift, and patients may resume normal activities within several days, though the healing process can require longer.

3. Total Nail Removal

In a few cases, and especially when the toenail ingrown is recurring or serious the foot surgeon could recommend removal of the entire nail. This procedure is like partial nail avulsion however it requires removal of all nail. A chemical agent can be used to stop the regrowth of the nail.

Post-Treatment Care

After treatment, it's essential to follow the foot surgeon's recommendations for post-treatment. Some common suggestions include:

• Maintaining the Cleanliness of the Area: Maintain proper hygiene to avoid infection.

• Wearing appropriate footwear: Opt for loose-fitting shoes that don't place pressure on your toes.

• Monitoring for complications: Watch for any indications of infection or unusual changes to the region.

Conclusion

Toenails that are ingrown can be painful and uncomfortable, however they can be treated with aid of a certified foot surgeon. Foot surgeons and Podiatrists in Perth are trained to identify and treat this issue effectively, employing a variety of techniques specifically tailored to the needs of each patient.

No matter if you require a conservative approach or one-time nail avulsions or total nail removal experience that a surgeon for feet will assist you in finding relief and prevent recurring issues. If you're suffering from symptoms of an ingrown nail, do not hesitate to seek out expert help and start the process to healthier, pain-free feet.