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Have an Ingrown Toenail? We Can Help

An ingrown toenail sounds like a minor problem, and in many cases it is, but if left untreated, it can cause a serious wound or infection. Certain patients are more likely than others to have recurring problems with ingrown toenails. If you have a stubborn ingrown nail that is starting to feel painful, is swelling, or has broken the skin, it’s important that you promptly seek help from podiatrist Dr. Zahid Ladha at Foot First Podiatry in New Albany, IN.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?
Normally, a toenail grows above the top layer of skin, not coming into to contact with the skin’s surface. In the case of an ingrown toenail, the sharp nail instead digs into the skin as it grows. If it isn’t clipped or safely removed, the skin will break, start to bleed, and possibly become infected if it isn’t treated. Ingrown toenails are common in people who have fleshy toes and poorly structured feet. When you cut your nails too short or wear tight-fitting shoes, you are more likely to have problems with ingrown toenails.

Safe Treatment for an Ingrown Toenail
When a toenail evolves from an annoyance to a painful problem, the first inclination is to try to dig it out and clip it. But trying to fix things at home can make the problem worse. See your New Albany, IN, podiatrist for professional help, including:

- Safe surgical removal of the nail.
- Wound treatment and wrapping.
- Antibiotic therapy (creams or oral medication).
- Preventative nail clipping. 

Protect Your Toes
It is very important to manage ingrown toenails if you have been diagnosed with diabetes or a circulatory condition. Without proper circulation, wounds on the lower extremities (including the feet and toes) don’t heal as quickly as they should. Protect your toes by clipping your nails the right way (a millimeter or two above the place where the skin meets the nail) and keeping them moderately moisturized. Soaking your toes regularly can also help.

Ask for Help
If you have an ingrown toenail that is starting to pierce your skin, or you are prone to this particular foot problem, ask a podiatrist at Foot First Podiatry in New Albany, IN, for help. Call (812) 945-9221 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zahid Ladha.

Foot First Podiatry

3605 Northgate Ct Ste 206
New Albany, IN 47150
(812) 945-9221 (812) 945-7141

Our Location

3605 Northgate Ct Ste 206 New Albany, IN 47150

Hours of Operation

The office is closed from 12:00 to 1:00 for lunch Monday thru Thursday.

Foot First Podiatry

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-1:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed