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Ingrown Toenails

INGROWN TOENAILS Treatment in Elgin and Chicago, IL

Ingrown toenails typically aren’t a cause for concern; however, we know how painful they can be. If you are someone who deals with ingrown toenails rather regularly it may be a good idea to turn to our Elgin and Chicago, IL, podiatrist Dr. Supreet Ghuman here at Prairie Foot And Ankle to find out more about why this problem keeps happening to you.

What are ingrown toenails?

An ingrown toenail is a common toenail problem that results when the side of a toenail grows into the skin. This often causes inflammation, pain, and tenderness. While ingrown toenails can appear on any toe, they most often occur on the big toe.

What are the causes of ingrown toenails?

There are several reasons why you may be dealing with an ingrown toenail. The most common cause comes from improperly clipping your toenails. If you cut your toenails too short or if you try to cut the edges at a curve rather than straight across, you leave your toenail prone to this painful problem.

If you are guilty of shoving your feet into shoes with an extremely pointed toe box, that are too tight or crowd the toes, then you may also find yourself dealing with an ingrown toenail. Also, direct injury to the toenail can result in this condition.

How can I prevent an ingrown toenail from happening to me?

One of the best ways to prevent an ingrown toenail is to be sure to never trim your toenails past the tip of your toe and to always trim it straight across. Furthermore, don’t wear shoes that crowd your toes and put pressure on this area of your foot. Also, if you have a job or hobby that might put you at risk for toe injuries it's important that you invest in protective footwear such as shoes with a steel toe or proper athletic footwear

How is an ingrown toenail treated?

Luckily, most ingrown toenails can be treated from the comfort of your own home with these helpful strategies,

  • Avoid wearing shoes or socks that are snug or too tight. Sometimes, ill-fitting shoes can be the cause of your foot problem, so it’s crucial to prevent further problems. Plus, putting extra pressure on an ingrown toenail can cause further discomfort or could make your condition worse. Instead, opt for shoes that are breathable and allow some room for your toes to move around freely.
  • Give your peds a soak in the tub several times a day using warm, soapy water. This will aid in healing and also provide some relief from the pain.
  • If necessary, you can also take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to help with any discomfort you feel.

If you are dealing with severe pain and swelling around the toenail, or if pus or drainage is coming from the toe, these are signs of an infection and should be treated right away by our podiatrist, Dr. Ghuman, and his staff.

If you are dealing with painful ingrown toenails, signs of an infected toenail, or you also have diabetes, it’s important that you turn to our Chicago and Elgin, IL, podiatrist Dr. Ghuman and the team at Prairie Foot And Ankle right away. Call us today at (224) 227-6973


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Elgin Office

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9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

2:00 pm-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

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9:00 am-1:00 pm

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2:00 pm-4:00 pm

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