Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail occurs when the skin on the side of a toenail grows over the edge of the nail, or when the nail grows into the skin.

Ingrown toenails can develop for many reasons.

Here are some examples:
• Toenails that are too large
• Toes that curl from arthritis
• Stubbing a toe or having one stepped on
• Frequent running
• Trimming nails incorrectly
• Excessively tight stockings
• Shoes with narrow toe boxes

Bedridden patients commonly develop ingrown toenails if the bed sheets are tucked-in tightly.

How to prevent ingrown nails

Ingrown toenails can be preventable with certain measures. For starters, allowing your toe nails to grow slightly longer in length will help prevent them from becoming ingrown. If you have already developed an ingrown toenail, soak the affected toe in warm water. This will alleviate the pain and help prevent an infection from forming. Antibiotic soap or Epsom salts may be added to further help the relieving process and avoid infection. Placing cotton beneath the affected area is also suggested, as this may help the toenail grow upwards and not into the nail bed. Swelling and redness can be reduced by resting with your feet elevated.

A podiatrist should be seen if the pain becomes so serious that it prevents you from doing your everyday activities. If a red streak running up your leg appears or if you suspect your infection has spread, contact a podiatrist immediately. Fast treatments can be undertaken to lessen your pain and have you walking comfortably.

Treatment Options

Ingrown toenails can easily be removed during a simple in-office procedure, which will prevent the ingrown from growing back in most cases. If you have an ingrown toenail that is bothering you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kyle Hopkins at AVORS Medical Group to discuss the best treatment option for your ingrown toenail.

Dr. Hopkins is a Board Certified Podiatrist specializing in foot trauma and fracture care, podiatric surgery, sports medicine, wound care, and regenerative medicine. He works in the hospital on all foot traumas, as well as in his community clinic prescribing orthotics to help peoples feet, performing nail surgery, sports medicine and injury, and diabetic care. 

"I am excited to be able to help build a program in partnership with Palmdale Regional Medical Center. We are creating a specific goal in preventing amputations and offering hope combined with cutting edge technology to prevent amputations or hospitalizations. Our goal is to provide improved limb preservation to everyone in the Antelope Valley" Said Dr. Kyle Hopkins.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

No, you can self-refer to any of our podiatrists. However, your insurance carrier may require a referral before covering appointments and treatments. Check with your insurance company to understand your specific benefits.

Dr. Hopkins practices at 42135 10th St West, STE 101, Lancaster, CA 93534 or at 26357 McBean pkwy, STE 255, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.

To learn more about what your local podiatrist Dr. Kyle Hopkins can offer, click on the following www.avorsmedgroup.com/foot-and-ankle-specialists

To learn more about Dr. Kyle Hopkins, click on the following www.avorsmedgroup.com/Kyle-Hopkins

Call us at 661-726-5005 to schedule a consultation!