Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Brigham City, Utah

Ingrown toenail causing redness and swelling along the nail edge.

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of a toenail grows into the soft flesh at the border of the nail bed. Ingrown toenails are most common on the big toe, though they can occur on any toe. Left unaddressed, they can cause redness, swelling, and pain, and in some cases lead to infection.

If an ingrown toenail is minor, you may be tempted to treat it at home, but it's always safer to have it evaluated by a professional. Attempting to dig out an ingrown nail yourself can worsen the problem or introduce infection. Through proper medical care, our doctors can resolve the ingrown toenail and help prevent it from returning.

What are the common symptoms of an ingrown toenail?

If you have an ingrown toenail, you may experience:

  • Tenderness and pain in the affected toe
  • Redness around the nail
  • Swelling
  • Infection, sometimes with pus or drainage

While infections aren't common, when they occur they usually involve pus around the nail and can spread to other parts of the foot. People with diabetes are at greater risk of infection because the condition can limit blood flow to the foot — if you have diabetes and an ingrown toenail, contact our Brigham City office right away rather than waiting.

What causes ingrown toenails?

There are many possible causes, and sometimes there's no clear reason. Common contributors include:

  • Naturally curved toenails
  • Tight-fitting shoes
  • Toenail injuries
  • Cutting nails at an angle
  • Cutting nails too short

During your appointment, your foot specialist examines the toe and recommends the most appropriate treatment.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

While you wait for your appointment, soaking your foot in warm water can relieve irritation and temporarily ease pain and tenderness. At Corbridge Podiatry, your podiatrist may remove a small section of the nail or nail border to allow the nail to grow back correctly. This procedure is typically quick and nearly painless, and if you're sensitive to discomfort, a local anesthetic keeps you comfortable. For recurrent ingrown nails, a procedure to prevent the nail edge from regrowing can offer a permanent solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I treat an ingrown toenail at home?

Warm soaks can ease mild discomfort, but you should not cut into the nail or skin yourself. If pain, redness, or drainage develops — or returns repeatedly — see one of our Brigham City podiatrists.

When is an ingrown toenail an emergency?

Seek prompt care if you see pus, spreading redness, or fever, or if you have diabetes or poor circulation, since infections can escalate quickly.

Does ingrown toenail removal hurt?

The toe is numbed with a local anesthetic first, so the procedure itself is comfortable. Most people feel relief soon afterward.

How can I prevent ingrown toenails?

Trim nails straight across (not curved), avoid cutting them too short, and wear shoes with enough room in the toe box.

Related Services at Corbridge Podiatry

Toenail Fungus • Diabetic Foot Care • Bunions

Schedule Your Appointment.

Call Corbridge Podiatry at 435-222-0635 or request an appointment online. 903 S Main St Suite B, Brigham City, UT 84302.