Ingrown toenails are one of the most common — and painful — foot problems people experience. They can make something as simple as walking or wearing shoes feel unbearable. If you’ve been struggling with an ingrown toenail, you might be wondering: Can a podiatrist help?
The short answer is yes — podiatrists are the specialists who diagnose, treat, and remove ingrown toenails safely and effectively.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection.
While the big toe is most often affected, any toenail can become ingrown due to factors like:
- Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounded)
- Tight-fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes
- Injury or trauma to the toenail
- Naturally curved toenails
- Excessive sweating, which softens the nail and surrounding skin
When to See a Podiatrist
Mild ingrown toenails may improve with at-home care such as warm water soaks, proper nail trimming, and wearing open-toed shoes.
However, you should see a podiatrist if you experience:
- Severe or persistent pain
- Swelling or redness that worsens
- Drainage, pus, or signs of infection
- Recurrent ingrown toenails that keep coming back
If left untreated, an infected ingrown toenail can lead to more serious complications — especially for those with diabetes, poor circulation, or immune issues.
How Podiatrists Treat Ingrown Toenails
Podiatrists are trained foot and ankle doctors who specialize in nail and skin conditions of the feet. Their treatments depend on the severity of your ingrown toenail:
1. Conservative Treatment
For mild cases, our podiatrist may lift the ingrown edge and place a small piece of sterile cotton or splint under it. This helps guide the nail to grow above the skin edge instead of into it.
2. Partial Nail Removal
If infection or pain is severe, a partial nail avulsion (removal of the ingrown section) is often performed. The area is numbed, and the ingrown edge of the nail is carefully removed. This provides immediate relief and allows the skin to heal properly.
3. Permanent Nail Correction
For chronic or recurring cases, the podiatrist may perform a matrixectomy, a minor procedure that prevents the problematic part of the nail from growing back. This is done using a gentle chemical ]yg7t, offering a long-term solution with minimal discomfort. Less 5% chance of recurrence with a permanent ingrown toenail removal.
Aftercare and Prevention
After treatment, our podiatrist will provide care instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent recurrence. Tips may include:
- Keeping the area clean and covered as it heals
- Wearing properly fitting shoes with enough toe room
- Trimming toenails straight across (not curved or too short)
- Avoiding picking or digging into nails
Healthy Nails Start With Expert Care
If you’re suffering from an ingrown toenail, you don’t have to live with the pain. A podiatrist can relieve discomfort, prevent infection, and help your nails grow properly again.
At Gauld Foot & Ankle, our experienced podiatrists offer safe, effective ingrown toenail treatments that get you back on your feet — pain-free and confident.
Take the first step toward relief today.
Call us today (678) 215-1882 or request an appointment online