When an ingrown toenail makes every step uncomfortable, sending shooting pain through your toe, even simple activities like walking the dog or playing with your kids can become unbearable. If you’re tired of a painful ingrown toenail making it difficult to get through the day, there’s good news: you don’t have to put up with the discomfort. At Indy Podiatry, our team of board-certified podiatrists understands how this seemingly small problem can have a big impact on your daily life. With our focus on active lifestyles and innovative treatments, we’ll help you get back on your feet and back to doing what you love.
Taking a Patient-Centered Approach to Ingrown Toenail Care
Unlike practices that offer one-size-fits-all solutions, our team creates personalized treatment plans that consider your lifestyle and goals. Our podiatrists bring diverse expertise and a shared commitment to patient-centered care. We know you want more than just pain relief; you want to return to your active lifestyle, unlimited by discomfort, as quickly as possible—and we’re here to help. Here’s what you should know about ingrown toenails, their causes, and your treatment options.
Understanding Ingrown Toenails: More Than Just a Minor Nuisance
An ingrown toenail develops when the nail’s edge grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. While this might sound like a minor issue, ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications—especially if you’re active or have health conditions like diabetes or poor circulation. Common causes include:
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Improper toenail trimming techniques. Cutting your toenails too short—or rounding the edges—can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Our podiatrists recommend trimming toenails straight across. We also offer routine nail trimming services for patients with health concerns.
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Athletic activities. Runners and other athletes face an increased risk of ingrown toenails due to repetitive pressure on the toes. Our Indianapolis and Fishers specialists offer guidance to help prevent recurrence.
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Poor-fitting footwear. Shoes that crowd your toes can force the nail to grow incorrectly. We provide tips to help you ensure the proper fit.
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Genetic predisposition. Some people naturally have more curved nails that are prone to becoming ingrown.
During your examination, your Indianapolis-area podiatrist will discuss potential causes and how to mitigate them to reduce your risk of another ingrown toenail.
Exploring Our Comprehensive Treatment Options
At Indy Podiatry, we offer a variety of treatment approaches based on the severity of the ingrown toenail. These include:
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Conservative care. For mild cases, we provide guidance on proper nail trimming and footwear selection while monitoring your healing.
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Partial nail removal. Using a local anesthetic, we can quickly and comfortably remove the ingrown portion of the toenail.
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Permanent nail modification. For patients dealing with recurring ingrown toenails, we can perform a simple procedure to prevent the problematic portion of the nail from growing back.
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Medical spa services. Our unique medical foot spa offers therapeutic treatments in a private, sterile environment to support your recovery.
Offering Advanced Care in a Modern Setting
Indy Podiatry is committed to helping you live without foot or ankle pain. Our practice stands out because we:
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Offer same-day appointments for acute issues, like ingrown toenails with potential infections
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Listen carefully to your concerns and goals
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Address your questions and concerns thoroughly
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Create custom treatment plans that fit your lifestyle
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Provide clear communication about treatment options and costs
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Accept most insurance plans and offer flexible payment options
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Maintain a sterile medical foot spa for treatments
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Ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your treatment plan
But that’s not all. Our Indianapolis and Fishers offices feature state-of-the-art treatment rooms, advanced diagnostic equipment, comfortable waiting areas, and ample parking. We welcome patients from communities throughout Central Indiana, including Meridian-Kessler, Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Westfield, Zionsville, Noblesville, Whitestown, and Sheridan.
Seeking Prompt Professional Care for Ingrown Toenails Is Vital for Patients With Health Problems
When you have diabetes, poor circulation, or other conditions that affect the lower extremities, a seemingly minor issue like an ingrown toenail can quickly become something more serious. Don’t risk it. Reach out to us as soon as possible if you notice redness, swelling, tenderness, or pain around your toenail.