If you keep cutting your toenails too short, you may be at risk for ingrown toenails and painful skin infections. At Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery, the experienced podiatrists offer treatment services to remove toenails that grow into your skin. They also teach you how to trim your nails correctly to lower your risk for additional ingrown toenail complications. Call the office in Burbank, Santa Clarita, or Northridge, California, to schedule an appointment for painful ingrown toenails or book an appointment online today!

request an appointment

What are ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of your nail grows into the surrounding skin. When nails pierce the skin, it can cause pain and increase your risk for infection.

Typically, ingrown toenails form when you trim your toenails too short or not straight across. You might also be at an increased risk for ingrown toenails because of:

  • Heredity
  • Toe injuries
  • Fungal infections
  • Foot structure abnormalities

You may also be more likely to develop ingrown toenails if you frequently wear shoes that are too tight or too narrow.

When should I seek treatment for ingrown toenails?

You should schedule an evaluation at Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery if you have ingrown toenail symptoms that interfere with your mobility or comfort. These symptoms can include:

  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness

If you have severe pain or notice a discharge of pus, it could be a sign of an infection in your toe. If left untreated, the infection can worsen and spread to other areas.

The Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery providers perform a comprehensive physical exam of your affected nail. They tailor a treatment plan to your needs to treat the nail and relieve your symptoms.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

In the early stages, the Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery providers may have you soak your feet in warm, soapy water for several minutes before trimming away your nail. If you have signs of an infection, you may need to take an antibiotic to clear it.

If the nail is deep into your skin, your provider may perform an in-office procedure to remove part or all of your toenail. They first inject your toe with a local anesthetic to prevent pain and keep you comfortable.

The podiatrists also offer resources to prevent additional ingrown toenails. They show you how to trim your nails properly and may recommend that you soak your feet several times a day to keep your nails soft and flexible.

You should also wear shoes that fit well and always keep your feet clean and dry.

Call the Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery office nearest you to schedule a consultation for painful ingrown toenails or book an appointment online today.