What are ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails are a common condition, treated by The Functional Podiatrist. You might experience pain in the big toenail that affects your running or walking. The toe can become red, hot, and enlarged, and may give indications of infection.
Signs and Symptoms of ingrown toenails:
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Hard skin close to the nail.
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Tenderness of the skin around the nail.
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Swelling around the skin and nails.
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A painful curved toenail.
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The toe is painful.
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Redness in the skin close to the nail.
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The toe might be hot.
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Discharge or disease might be seen close to the toenail.
Causes of ingrowing toenails:
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Footwear - non-fitting shoes and footwear that is excessively tight for your toes.
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Inappropriate cutting - leaving spikes in the nail which puncture the skin.
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Injury - Dropping something on the nail or doing sports, for example, running can cause excess pressure on the nail.
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Genetic nail conditions - Abnormal shapes in the nail.
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Posture or foot irregularity.
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Infection.
Treatment options:
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Wide footwear gives you more space around the toes.
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Soaking the feet with saltwater and utilizing disinfectant cream.
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Correct cutting of the nail to give a correct edge that can grow out by podiatrists.
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Nail surgery is a medical procedure - Removal of part of the nail or the entire nail.
Nail Surgery – How will the toenail be removed?
Partial Nail Avulsion Procedure Overview
Step 1: Evaluation
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You'll undergo an evaluation to determine if this procedure is suitable for your needs.
Step 2: Local Anesthesia
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Local anesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free experience.
Step 3: Numbness
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After about five minutes, your toe will be completely numb.
Step 4: Nail Removal
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We'll remove part or all of the nail, depending on your specific condition.
Step 5: Phenol Application
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A chemical (phenol) is applied to the nail matrix to prevent regrowth (97% success rate).
Step 6: Dressing
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Your toe will be dressed with a compression bandage, to be worn for two days.
Step 7: Recovery
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Rest is essential for a swift recovery. Some mild discomfort is expected but manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Step 8: Duration
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The procedure takes about 60 minutes. You can walk afterward but bring flip-flops. Driving is not recommended for 24 hours.
This procedure is a common and effective solution for nail issues. If you have further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team.
How painful is it afterwards?
Most clients don't use pain relief medication following this technique, but, certain individuals might encounter some pain. In the event that the toe is painful, it is recommended to take pain relief medication like Paracetamol. Do not take anything that contains anticoagulant medicine like Aspirin.
Are there any risks involved?
This method is safe and has a high success rate for treating ingrowing toenails. Like any methodology, there are minor dangers implied which your podiatrist will talk about with you during the consultation and while acquiring formal consent before booking in the surgery.
The different treatment options will be discussed and a treatment plan will be outlined to you. We strive to educate the patient and provide them with the tools to stay injury-free.
If you would like to book an appointment please click the link or speak to our friendly booking team on 02035760630 or click HERE to book online.
