Professional Ingrown Toenail Care at Foster Foot Care Clinic, Fonthill
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This common condition most often affects the big toe and can worsen quickly if not treated properly. At Foster Foot Care Clinic, our licensed chiropodist provides safe, effective ingrown toenail treatment to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
Ingrown toenails develop when a toenail curves or presses into the skin along the nail border. As the nail continues to grow, it irritates the skin, which can lead to inflammation, tenderness, and infection. Early professional care helps reduce discomfort and avoid complications.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Several factors can contribute to ingrown toenails, including:
- Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounded)
- Tight or ill-fitting footwear that puts pressure on the toes
- Injury or trauma to the toenail
- Naturally curved or thick nails
- Repetitive pressure from walking, sports, or standing for long periods
- Swelling of the feet that increases pressure around the nail
Signs & Symptoms
Common symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
- Pain or tenderness along the side of the nail
- Redness and swelling around the nail border
- Warmth or throbbing discomfort
- Drainage or pus if infection is present
- Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably
Without treatment, symptoms can worsen and lead to infection.
💡 Ingrown toenails most often affect the big toe and happen when the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of straight out.
Diagnosis by a Chiropodist
A chiropodist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a simple clinical examination. Assessing the severity of the ingrown nail and identifying contributing factors helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment at Foster Foot Care Clinic
Treatment is based on the severity of the condition and your overall foot health. Your personalized care plan may include:
Conservative Treatment
- Gentle removal of the ingrown nail edge
- Reduction of inflammation and pressure
- Guidance on proper nail care and footwear
Advanced Ingrown Toenail Care
- Treatment of infected tissue when present
- Partial nail procedures when conservative care is not sufficient
- Measures to help prevent the nail from growing back incorrectly
Professional treatment provides faster relief and lowers the risk of infection compared to home remedies.
Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of future ingrown toenails:
- Trim toenails straight across and avoid rounding the corners
- Avoid cutting nails too short
- Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
- Keep feet clean and dry
- Seek professional care if you have recurring ingrown nails
When to Seek Professional Care
You should book an appointment if:
- Toe pain persists or worsens
- There are signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or drainage
- Walking or wearing shoes becomes painful
- You have diabetes, circulation issues, or nerve damage
- Ingrown toenails keep coming back
Early treatment helps prevent complications and promotes faster healing.
Book an Ingrown Toenail Appointment
If you are experiencing pain from an ingrown toenail, professional care can help restore comfort and prevent infection.
Foster Foot Care Clinic proudly serves patients in Fonthill, ON and surrounding communities.
📞 Call 289-897-8366 or book your appointment online today.