So you have an ingrowing toenail, what happens next?
Most of our patients only consider seeing us at Medipod clinics when they have a problem with their feet. One common complaint is an ingrowing toenail. This is when the side of the nail grown into the skin causing pain, swelling and inflammation. Sometimes they can get infected.
The common causes of ingrown toenails include:
- Wearing shoes that crowd the toenails
- Cutting toenails too short or not straight across
- Trauma
- Having very curved toenails
- Nail infections
- Certain medical conditions
So what happens when you book in to see one of our podiatrists?
Firstly, they may try to treat and manage you condition conservatively to reduce the inflammation and any infection that may be present. They will give you a management plan that may include:
- Soaking the affected toe in a warm salted water to prevent infection and bring inflammation down.
- Instruction on how to cut the nail correctly.
- Packing to lift affected nail to encourage the nail to grow correctly.
- On rare occasions they can issue antibiotics if needed.
Sometimes surgery is the only option to cure ingrown nails. During this routine procedure, the side of your nail is cut back, and a chemical is applied in the nail root to stop the nail from growing back. This will change the width of your nail and permanently resolve your ingrown toenail.
What happens if surgery is the best option?
Firstly, paperwork needs to be completed during a presurgical appointment either in person or over the phone. The podiatrist will talk you through the procedure and aftercare.
On the day of your surgery you will require a lift home, it is not advisable to drive until the anaesthetic has worn off and full feeling returned to your feet. Sliders or similar footwear will be required to accommodate your bandaged toe.
Feeling a little nervous, not to worry!
You are welcome to bring any forms of distraction particularly if you are feeling nervous about the procedure. In the past patients have listened to music, read a book, watched a movie, or just laid back and relaxed with a face mask. We will provide a hot drink or water and if you are lucky maybe a biscuit! (assuming we haven’t eaten them all!!) We want you to relax!
If you are feeling particularly nervous feel free to invite someone along for moral support. They are welcome to sit with you during the procedure especially if they know any good jokes!
The only uncomfortable part of the procedure is the Anaesthetic injection. After that you should feel only a gentle tugging as the podiatrist carries out the procedure. The procedure itself will not take long. It will only take longer if the podiatrist starts telling you where they are going on holiday!
The toe/toes will be dressed with an absorbent dressing and bandage. If Faye is the podiatrist then your bandage will be given her trademark smiley face before you leave. Dressing packs and advice on aftercare will be given.
After the surgery
The anaesthetic can take up to 4 hours to wear off fully. Some patients experience some discomfort, but a mild painkiller (e.g. paracetamol )can be taken.
If you have any concerns after surgery, our phone lines are always open, and someone (probably Faye) will be able to advise accordingly. It is advisable not to drive until you have full feeling back in your toes.
The first post-surgery appointment is usually 24 hours after the procedure. This is to check that the wound is clean and that the toe is beginning to heal. You will be shown how best to redress your toe while it heals. This dressing should enable you to wear normal shoes. Must patients are able to return to work at this stage.
By the second appointment, 1 week after surgery , your toes should no longer feel sore, and you should be back to wearing normal shoes and be in a normal routine. Though it is not advisable to participate in contact sports or swimming until it is fully healed.
Your third dressing appointment is about 3 weeks after the procedure. By then, most toes are about 80% healed. It is advisable to continue the aftercare routine until it is fully dry. Depending on progress, a further dressing appointment maybe organised. We would like to make sure that the nail is growing well, and you are happy with the appearance of your toe.
What our patients say:
“Walked in today with a painful toe and without an appointment. They fitted me in and diagnosed an ingrowing toenail. They dealt with the problem very efficiently. I recommend Faye and her team for a professional and friendly service.” Frederick
“Absolutely brilliant service and staff. Finally, I can wear open toe shoes. Changed my life. Thank you so so much.” Jo
In conclusion, if you are suffering from painful toenails, make the first step and seek professional advice. We are more than happy to help, and we want to put a smile on your feet. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.
We also offer treatments for thickened nails, hard skin, fungal nails, and advice for people with Diabetes. With our expertise and experience, you will have full peace of mind when it comes to your foot health.
For more information about our range of treatments, please contact us on 01455 246100. We would love to help you with any foot health issues you may have.
Thank you for reading – 2024 – So you have an ingrowing toenail, what happens next?
Faye, Natalie, Lisa, Maria, Zoe, Claire and Julia