Ingrown nails are very common! They occur when the skin digs into the skin around the nail. It can create pain, swelling, drainage and if left untreated they can become infected. They can occur for many reasons including injury, how the nail was trimmed, genetics or tight shoes putting pressure on the area around the toenail. If you do not have signs of infection and do not have decreased blood flow or neuropathy, you may be able to treat this at home with soaking in Epsom salts, modifying shoe gear to decrease pressure. It is important not to take on “bathroom surgery.” More often than not, it actually makes the ingrown nail worse and increases infection risk. If your home treatment is not helping within a week or if you are noticing worsening redness, drainage, and pain-let the experts help you feel resolve this pesky ingrown nail!
Call the Foot & Ankle Specialists of Ames at (515) 444-2390 or email info@fas-ames.com to make an appointment!
