When an ingrown toenail keeps coming back, becomes infected, or hurts with every step, home care may not be enough. TSB Podiatry evaluates painful ingrown toenails in Prosper and explains whether a simple in-office procedure is the right next step.
Not every ingrown toenail needs a procedure. Dr. Boehm examines the nail, skin, pain pattern, infection risk, and medical history before recommending the least complicated option that makes sense.
When a procedure is appropriate, the painful nail edge can often be treated in the office. The toe is numbed first. Then the problem portion of the nail is removed carefully so the skin can calm down and the pressure can improve.
For recurring ingrown toenails, Dr. Boehm may discuss options intended to reduce the chance that the same painful edge keeps growing back. The right approach depends on the toe, the nail shape, infection status, and your goals.
Call promptly if an ingrown toenail has increasing redness, drainage, swelling, warmth, odor, or pain that is spreading. Patients with diabetes, circulation problems, or reduced sensation should be especially cautious about waiting.
