Ingrown toenails are a common but painful foot problem where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This typically affects the big toe but can happen on any toe.   Our office understands the discomfort and  frustration that ingrown toenails can cause. Thankfully, there are effective treatments and preventative measures available to help you find relief and keep your feet healthy.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

 There are several factors that can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. The most common cause is improper nail trimming—cutting your   nails too short or rounding the corners  can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight, narrow, or poorly  fitted shoes that squeeze the toes together can also lead to ingrown toenails. Additionally, foot injuries, genetic predisposition, and nail deformities (such as thick or curved nails) can increase  your risk.

Why Diabetic Patients Should Not Attempt Self-Treatment

If you have diabetes, it is extremely important not to attempt to remove an ingrown toenail yourself. Diabetes can affect circulation and nerve function in the feet, making even minor injuries susceptible to serious infections. Attempting to trim or dig out an ingrown toenail at home can lead to ulcers, infections, and even more severe complications. Instead, visit a board-certified podiatrist at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle for safe and professional care. Our team will assess your condition and develop a customized treatment plan to protect your foot health.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails

  If you notice redness, swelling, pain, or drainage around your toenail, it’s important to seek professional treatment. At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, we offer a variety of treatment options depending on the severity of your condition. Mild cases can often be managed with warm soaks and proper foot hygiene. More severe cases may require partial or complete nail removal performed under local anesthesia.

One of our most innovative solutions is the Onyfix® Nail Correction System. This pain-free and non-invasive method gently reshapes the nail, guiding it to grow properly without cutting or removing any nail. The Onyfix® system uses a composite material applied to the nail, which hardens to maintain the correct shape as the nail grows. This treatment is especially beneficial for those seeking a non-surgical solution to chronic ingrown toenails.

Prevention Tips

Preventing ingrown toenails is possible with a few simple practices. Always cut your toenails straight across and avoid rounding the corners. Keep your nails at a moderate length—neither too short nor too long. Opt for comfortable, well-fitting shoes that provide ample toe space. Maintaining good foot hygiene by washing and drying your feet thoroughly is also essential.

If you experience persistent pain or discomfort from an ingrown toenail, don’t wait for it to get worse. Trust the experienced podiatrists at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, Arizona, to provide safe and effective care. Whether you need conservative treatment or the advanced Onyfix® Nail Correction System, our team is here to help you get back to pain-free living. Schedule your appointment today with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya!