Ingrown Nails Treatment in Novato, CA

Ingrown nails are a common foot impairment where the nails, instead of growing out, dig into the skin's soft tissues in the nail groove. This causes discomfort, pain, redness, swelling, and discoloration of the nail. In most cases, the corners or the curved part of the nail grow into the skin. While ingrown nails are most common in the big toe, other nails may also be affected.

Causes of Ingrown nails

Ingrown nails cause pain, redness and swelling, drainage, and prominent skin tissue on the affected nail. The condition of ingrown nails may be caused by the following factors:

• Toenails need to be trimmed straight across. If they are trimmed or rounded at the corners, it may result in the nail growing into the flesh.
• Trauma such as a heavy object falling on the toe may also cause an ingrown nail.
• Applying stress to the toes with physical activities or peep-toe footwear can also cause ingrown nails. Sportspersons who kick objects or ballet performers who use their toes extensively most commonly suffer from ingrown nails.
• Those born with thick nails, or older individuals with thick nails, tend to suffer from the condition.
• Ingrown nails are also a genetic trait that people inherit from their families.

Treatment for Ingrown nails by Clement Podiatry

Although home remedies such as soaking the feet in the water and applying an antiseptic to the area are recommended, it may not always be effective. Moreover, infection, drainage, or redness may be an indication of the severity of the condition that needs immediate care by a podiatrist. It is best to leave it to a podiatrist to treat an ingrown nail as they are one of the most common foot issues that they are experts treating in. At Clement, we carefully remove the ingrown nail, suggest oral and topical medication, and recommend preventative tips for patients with this condition.

If you notice that you have an ingrown nail or feel pain in your foot that is causing you to limp, call Clement Podiatry at (415) 898-4828 or schedule a consultation online,