Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Gilbert, AZ
At Stepwise Podiatry Clinic in Gilbert, Arizona, we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for ingrown toenails, focusing on fast pain relief, infection prevention, and long-term solutions. If you are searching for an ingrown toenail podiatrist near you, painful toenail treatment, or ingrown toenail removal in Gilbert, AZ, our team offers safe, effective, and personalized care.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, and infection. Ingrown toenails most commonly affect the big toe and can worsen over time if left untreated.
Common Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Pain or tenderness along the nail border
Redness and swelling around the toenail
Drainage or pus (signs of infection)
Increased pain with pressure or footwear
Thickened or curved toenails
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails may develop due to:
Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounded)
Tight or ill-fitting footwear
Toe trauma or repetitive pressure
Nail shape or thickness
Fungal nail infections
Genetic predisposition
Risk Factors
You may be at increased risk for ingrown toenails if you:
Wear tight or narrow shoes
Have thick, curved, or abnormal toenails
Participate in sports or activities with toe trauma
Have excessive sweating of the feet
Have diabetes or poor circulation
Have difficulty trimming toenails properly
How Are Ingrown Toenails Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made through:
Review of symptoms and medical history
Physical examination of the affected toe
In cases of infection or recurrent ingrown toenails, further evaluation may be necessary to guide treatment.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment Options
Conservative Treatments
Mild or early cases may be treated with:
Proper nail trimming and education
Soaking and local wound care
Padding or bracing techniques
Topical or oral antibiotics (if infection is present)
Footwear modification
Advanced & In-Office Treatments
For painful, infected, or recurrent ingrown toenails, in-office treatment options may include:
Partial nail avulsion (removal of the affected nail border)
Total nail avulsion (when indicated)
Chemical matrixectomy using phenol or alcohol to prevent regrowth
Treatment of associated infection or inflammation
These procedures are typically performed in the office with local anesthesia and minimal downtime.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical intervention is rarely needed beyond in-office procedures. When required, minimally invasive techniques are used to permanently correct the nail border and reduce recurrence.
Recovery & Prevention
Most patients experience rapid relief after treatment. Preventive strategies include:
Proper nail trimming techniques
Wearing appropriately fitting footwear
Maintaining good foot hygiene
Managing underlying medical conditions
When to See a Podiatrist
If you have ongoing pain, redness, swelling, drainage, or signs of infection, evaluation by a podiatrist is recommended. Early treatment can prevent complications, especially in patients with diabetes or circulation problems.