Ingrown Toenail

Each year, about 20% of Americans visiting their podiatrists need help with ingrown toenails. At Mastracco Foot & Ankle in North Canton, Ohio, Dominick Mastracco, DPM, AACFAS, offers complete care for ingrown toenails. A quick, in-office procedure can stop the nail from growing into your skin and reduce the risk of infection. To schedule an ingrown toenail consultation, call the office or book an appointment online today.

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when your nail grows into the soft skin surrounding the nail bed instead of away from your toe. As the nail grows into your skin, it causes swelling and pain. 

Ingrown toenails usually aren’t serious, but if you have health problems that affect your circulation, they can increase your risk of infection and other complications.

What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail?

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:

• Toe pain
• Tenderness
• Inflamed, red skin
• Swelling

You might also develop an infection as the nail grows into your skin. Signs of infection include a wound that oozes blood or pus. 

When should I see a foot surgeon about an ingrown toenail?

Make an appointment with Dr. Mastracco at Mastracco Foot & Ankle if you have an ingrown toenail and it’s very painful or affects your mobility. You may also need treatment if you have a chronic health problem that increases your risk of complications, such as diabetes or another condition that causes poor blood flow to your feet.

How is an ingrown toenail diagnosed?

Dr. Mastracco reviews your health charts and asks about your symptoms, including when you first noticed the ingrown nail and if you’ve tried at-home treatments, like wearing shoes with a wider toe box. 

Next, Dr. Mastracco examines your affected toe and toenail. He looks for redness, swelling, and other signs of infection. Then, he gently presses on your toe and toenail to identify the most sensitive areas. He also orders a series of X-rays to determine how far the nail grows into your skin. 

How are ingrown toenails treated?

Treatment for an ingrown toenail depends on how far the nail grows into your skin and if there’s an infection. Dr. Mastracco might recommend:

• Lifting the nail (so it grows away from the nail bed)
• Taping the nail (so it doesn’t touch your skin)
• Placing a gutter splint under the nail (to help it grow in the right direction)
• Partially removing the nail (if you have an infection)

If you regularly experience ingrown toenails and they affect your mobility or quality of life, Dr. Mastracco might recommend removing the nail entirely. During treatment, Dr. Mastracco uses a handheld laser to prevent the nail from growing back.

To discuss ingrown toenail treatments in more detail, call Mastracco Foot & Ankle or book an appointment online today.