Ingrown toenails can make walking, standing, and even wearing shoes unbearable. At Total Foot and Ankle in Enid, Oklahoma, board-certified podiatrist Scott Shields, DPM, can help you find relief from this common but painful condition with safe and effective treatments that keep your nails healthy and beautiful. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

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What are ingrown toenails?

An ingrown toenail grows into the adjacent skin. Any toenail can become ingrown, but it’s most likely to affect your big toe — the nail is thicker, and the toe’s position makes it more vulnerable to pressure from footwear.

Ingrown toenails can be painful and dangerous. Without treatment, the nail can grow deep into the skin and cause infection. At Total Foot and Ankle, Dr. Shields offers solutions to bring rapid relief from ingrown toenail pain.

What are the signs of an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail may not be obvious at first; you might not see the nail digging into the surrounding skin. Early signs of an ingrown toenail include:

  • Tenderness
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Skin that feels warm
  • Slight elevation of skin along the nail edge
  • Discomfort when wearing shoes
  • Pain when walking or standing

Pus can collect around the nail if it becomes infected. If you suspect an infected ingrown toenail, prompt medical attention can protect your health and well-being.

How do ingrown toenails develop?

Toenails can grow into adjacent skin for many reasons, including:

Ill-fitting shoes

Shoes that are too small or tight can put pressure on the nails, pushing them downward or sideways and causing them to snag on the skin.

Incorrect nail trimming

Clipping your nails too short or rounded can increase the risk of ingrown toenails.

Injuries

Injuring or stubbing your toe can change the shape of the nail and cause it to dig into the skin.

Genetics

Certain nail shapes lead to ingrown toenails, particularly curved, wide, or naturally rounded nails.

Can I treat an ingrown toenail myself?

With mild ingrown toenails, you can soak your foot in warm water and gently lift the edge of the nail. But this approach can be harmful if you’re not careful.

Dr. Shields provides safe, professional care for ingrown toenails that can relieve pain, prevent infection, and create beautiful nails.

After a comprehensive evaluation, he determines whether you need partial or full nail removal. Then, he applies a local anesthetic before removing the damaged portion of the nail. He may also prescribe antibiotics to treat infection.

Dr. Shields also offers Onyfix®, a noninvasive procedure that uses composite materials as a brace for the ingrown nail. He cures the material with an LED light, allowing it to reshape your nail for 2-3 months.

If you have an ingrown toenail, call Total Foot and Ankle or schedule an appointment online today.