Ingrown toenails are common, but that doesn’t make them any less painful. One side of the nail grows into the flesh next to the nail bed, causing inflammation and discomfort. Sometimes, the problem is difficult to resolve without professional Ingrown Toenails Treatment in Joliet IL. Podiatrists, who are doctors specializing in medical care for the feet, offer this service at their clinics.
Podiatrists at a clinic such as Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates gently remove the nail from where it is embedded and then trim the side. They may soak the foot first to soften the nail so it is more easily brought up from the skin. A local anesthetic is usually applied to numb the toe and prevent pain. In the worst-case scenario, Ingrown Toenails Treatment in Joliet IL requires removing the nail altogether. Fortunately, the nail will grow back eventually. Having it removed may seem distressing because of cosmetic issues, but a chronically inflamed, reddened toe causes aesthetic issues as well.
No matter how the ingrown nail is resolved, the patient will wear a bandage for a few days and must treat the toe gently. Activities that put stress on the toes, such as running, should be avoided until healing is complete. Over-the-counter painkillers are strong enough to relieve any lingering discomfort.
After Ingrown Toenails Treatment in Joliet IL, the doctor may provide advice on preventing the condition in the future. The main preventive strategy is to trim the nails straight across or to follow the shape of the toe, but not curve them too excessively. Some individuals have difficulty trimming their toenails properly and may want to have this done by someone else.
A person who is obese may have trouble reaching his or her feet, for example. Someone who suffers from arthritis in the hands may avoid trimming toenails because doing so is painful on the finger joints. A podiatrist and other staff members at the clinic can provide this service at an affordable price. An additional effective preventive technique is to avoid wearing shoes that are tight around the toes. Pointy shoes may be fashionable, but they are hard on the feet.
For more information visit Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates in Joliet IL
