Ingrown toenails may be small, but they can cause significant pain. If you have ongoing or severe symptoms, medical care helps manage as well as prevent complications. Dr. Alicia Knee is pleased to provide exams, diagnostics, and treatments, including surgery for severe cases, for people in San Francisco. Call Alicia Knee, DPM, to schedule an appointment or consultation.
Ingrown toenails are nails that have grown into the skin. While they can affect other toes, the big toe is most common. Once you have an ingrown, it can cause pain, swelling, and redness around the nail. In some cases, they become infected and release pus. If you have especially curved or thick nails, ingrown toenails are more likely.
Ingrown toenails can derive from cutting your toenails too short, rounding the edges, wearing poorly fitting socks or shoes, or stubbing or injuring your toe. They can also develop from repeating activities that injured your nail, such as kicking a ball over and over.
If your ingrown toenail is severe or the symptoms are long-lasting, your primary physician or Dr. Knee may recommend surgery.
Ingrown toenail surgery is a minor operation that removes part or all of the ingrown nail. Dr. Knee numbs your toe, then cuts the edge of the ingrown nail before pulling it out. She may destroy some or all of the nail’s root as well, a process called ablation, to prevent it from growing back.
Following post-surgery instructions is important for ensured healing. Dr. Knee goes over specifics, which may include:
If Dr. Knee removes all or part of your nail without destroying its root, the nail will start to regrow within a few months.
Numerous steps can be taken to lower your risk of ingrown toenails, including wearing roomy and comfortable shoes and keeping your toenails properly trimmed (straight across, not curved). If you have peripheral arterial disease or diabetes, which can lower sensation in the toes, talk to Dr. Knee before trimming your toenails to prevent accidental injuries and pain. You can also have your toenails professionally trimmed at a foot care clinic.
Dr Knee accepts most major PPO insurance plans. Here is list of some of the plans we accept. Please contact our office if you do not see your insurance provider listed.
