San Juan Regional Health

Ingrown toenails are common, affecting about 18% of adults in the United States. If you experience pain, redness, or swelling near your big toenail, the board-certified podiatrists at San Juan Health Partners Foot and Ankle in Farmington, New Mexico, can help. We offer simple, effective treatments that ease toenail pain and allow the nail to heal properly. Call our office today to schedule an appointment.

What are ingrown toenails?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the corner or side of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin. While it usually affects the big toe, it can occur on any toe. Left untreated, it can lead to localized infection and significant discomfort.

You may be more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you have:

• Toenail injuries or curved (hereditary) toenails
• Shoes that crowd your toes (tight toe boxes)
• Toenails trimmed too short or with rounded edges
• Diabetes or poor blood circulation
• Nerve damage in the feet or legs

What are the symptoms of ingrown toenails?

If you experience the following signs, you may have an ingrown toenail:

• Pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the nail
• Redness and swelling near the edge of the toenail
• Warmth or heat in the affected toe
• Pus or drainage, indicating a potential infection

If discomfort does not improve with basic care, our team can evaluate your toe and provide professional relief.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

We offer both conservative and surgical solutions based on the severity of your condition:

At-Home Care

Minor cases may heal by soaking the foot 3-4 times daily in warm water, keeping the foot dry, wearing open or loose shoes, and applying antibiotic creams. Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort during this time.

Surgical Options

If home remedies are unsuccessful or if the nail is chronically infected, your podiatrist may perform a minor, in-office procedure to remove a portion of the ingrown nail. We use a local anesthetic to ensure the procedure is completely comfortable. The nail typically regrows normally within 3-4 months.

How can I reduce my risk?

You can greatly reduce your risk of recurrence by:

• Trimming your toenails straight across (do not round the corners)
• Keeping toenails at a moderate length
• Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting shoes that give your toes room to move

Don’t let ingrown toenail pain reduce your quality of life. Call San Juan Health Partners Foot and Ankle to book your appointment.