Can Flat Feet Be Corrected in Adults?
Flat feet are a common structural abnormality, affecting about 8% of adults. Read on to learn about various treatment options that can ease pain and support mobility.
5 Signs It's Time to Seek Expert Care for Your Ingrown Toenail
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail tissue grows into the soft skin of the nail bed, causing pain and inflammation. Home remedies, like wearing open-toed shoes, can prevent further irritation, but they aren’t always enough to promote healing, making it important to know when professional care is necessary.
At Foot and Ankle Excellence in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, experienced podiatrist Bruni Leka, DPM, specializes in ingrown toenail treatment. He regularly works with patients to prevent infection and promote healing. This blog highlights five ingrown toenail symptoms that require professional care.
Ingrown toenails: 5 red flags that mean you need a doctor’s help
Wondering whether your ingrown toenail needs professional treatment? Look for these five telltale signs:
1. Signs of infection
When an ingrown toenail forms, it breaks your skin, allowing bacteria and other microorganisms to enter the wound and cause infection. Over-the-counter (OTC) antibacterial medication can help prevent this, but it isn’t guaranteed.
If your ingrown toenail is red, swollen, or oozing pus, contact us immediately. Prescription antibiotics can stop the infection from spreading and reduce the risk of more severe side effects, like gangrene (tissue death).
2. Mobility issues
All ingrown nails cause mild pain and increased sensitivity, but these symptoms typically improve with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication and footwear changes. For example, wearing shoes with a wide toe box can reduce friction on the affected toe and give it time to heal.
However, severe ingrown toenails can make it difficult to stand, walk, and complete daily activities. If your symptoms force you to change your routine or avoid exercise, contact us to prevent the condition from worsening.
3. You have poor circulation
Ingrown toenails typically heal within a week or two, but if you have a condition that affects circulation, it’s important to contact us. Chronic conditions like diabetes and peripheral artery disease (PAD) can prevent oxygen and nutrient-rich blood from reaching the feet.
Since this blood is essential for fighting infection and promoting healing, circulation issues can increase the risk of complications. Partnering with us can help reduce these risks and keep your feet and toes healthy.
4. Recurrent ingrown toenails
Do you often get ingrown toenails in the same spot? This can happen for various reasons, such as cutting your nails too short, wearing shoes that crowd your toes, or having naturally curved nails.
No matter the cause, our team can help identify the trigger. The sooner you address it, the less likely you are to experience long-term complications.
5. Symptoms that worsen after home care
Home remedies, like soaking your ingrown toenail in warm water or trimming your toenails straight across, can often help start the healing process. However, if your toe continues to hurt despite these measures, it’s time to see a podiatrist. While ingrown toenails rarely lead to serious complications, early intervention is always the best approach.
Request ingrown toenail treatment today!
If you’re concerned about an ingrown toenail that just won’t heal, get in touch. To schedule an appointment, contact Foot and Ankle Excellence today. Call our office at 215-608-6104 or use the online booking feature.
You Might Also Enjoy...
What Causes Plantar Warts and How Can I Get Rid of Them?
Plantar warts are one of the most common foot problems, affecting up to 10% of people. Thankfully, various treatments can prevent them from spreading and provide lasting relief.
Optimize Your Foot Health with Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics provide a quick, effective way to treat various foot and ankle problems by relieving pain, redistributing pressure, and optimizing performance. Learn more about the benefits here.
5 Essential Components of an Effective Diabetic Foot Care Routine
November is National Diabetes Month, an effort to raise awareness that diabetes is manageable but requires vigilance. Living with diabetes means monitoring your blood sugar — and taking special care of your feet.
Living With Plantar Fasciitis
It's hard to stay active when you have stabbing heel pain. But, you don’t have to let plantar fasciitis interfere with your life. With these simple strategies, you’ll be back on your feet and pain-free again in no time.
What Causes Toenail Fungus, and How Can I Get Rid of It?
You’re embarrassed to show off your feet in sandals or flip-flops because your toenails are crusted, yellow, or brown. Your nails aren’t deformed; they’ve got a fungus. With treatment, you can restore the look and health of your toenails again.