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When the edge of a nail digs into the skin, the toe turns red, swollen and so tender that even a shoe or bedsheet hurts. It almost always happens on the big toe and, left alone, it can get infected. At Clínica Hispana Cruz 4 we treat it with a simple procedure under local anesthesia, explaining each step in Spanish.
Why nails grow in
- Trimming nails in a curve or too short
- Tight or narrow-toed shoes, or work boots that press on the toe
- Stubbing or crushing the nail
- Naturally curved nails, sometimes inherited
- Heavy foot sweating
How we treat it
In mild cases without infection, lifting the edge and giving care instructions is sometimes enough. When it's very painful or there's pus, anesthetic is given at the base of the toe and only the strip of nail that's buried is removed, not the whole nail. It's cleaned, bandaged and, if the skin is infected, the doctor prescribes treatment. If the nail has grown in several times on the same side, the doctor may suggest an option so that edge stops growing into the skin.
After the procedure
- Keep the foot raised the first day
- Wear open or roomy shoes for a few days
- Wash the toe with soap and water and change the bandage as instructed
- A little drainage in the first days is normal
Come back if pain increases, you get a fever or redness spreads up the foot.
Keeping it from coming back
Trim straight across and leave the corners square, keeping the nail level with the tip of the toe. Wear shoes with room for your toes and change damp socks.
If you have diabetes
Don't try to fix the nail at home with clippers or scissors. A small foot wound can get complicated quickly; get seen as soon as you notice redness.
Included in this service
Ingrown toenail treatment
Local anesthesia
Pain relief
After-care instructions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Almost never. We take out just the narrow edge that's digging in and leave the rest of the nail alone.
Many people return soon, especially if they can wear roomy shoes. If your job requires boots or standing all day, you may need a day or two off.
Usually because of how it's trimmed, the footwear or a naturally curved nail. If it recurs on the same side, the doctor may suggest a treatment for that edge.
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