Ingrown toenails/Infected toenails are a common problem that we see with our children and adult patients. The shape of the nail plate is a major factor in causing an ingrown nail. While looking at the tip of the toe, a normal nail resembles a dinner plate laying upside down. The outer edges of the nail should be easy to see and easy to trim.
When a nail incurvates or bends inward on the edges the potential for an ingrown nail increases.
Improper trimming can lead to the nail growing into the flesh.
TREATMENT: PERMANENT CORRECTION (Partial Nail Excision)
First, a local anesthetic is given around the toe, which makes the toe numb and pain-free to the touch. Then the small piece of the toenail causing the problem is painlessly trimmed away. (NOT THE WHOLE NAIL) A topical medication is applied to the corresponding nail root, preventing that portion of the toenail removed from growing back.
Oral Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the infection.
A Band-Aid with a topical antibiotic ointment is used until healing is complete. (Remember a covered wound heals twice as fast as an uncovered wound left open to the air !)
The entire office surgical procedure takes less than 15 minutes. Most children and adults return to work or play the same day, and rarely is pain medication required. The chemical treatment for an ingrown toenail has been successfully used for many years and usually is a permanent solution to the problem for children and adults. Most patients find their treatment to be a comfortable, and a satisfying experience when performed by Dr. Forni, in contrast to their own DIY painful bathroom surgery.
If you think you have an Ingrown Toenail please call our office so we can help you become pain-free.
For an appointment call 708-867-3338 or 630-582-1100 We will adjust our hours for the convenience of our patients, whenever possible. Open: Mon.- Sat. & Evenings by appointment only. Children & Adults
AFP Podiatry, LTD
825 N. ROSELLE RD. ROSELLE, IL. 60172
Phone: (630) 582-1100
or
AFP Podiatry LTD. 4701 N. Cumberland Ave. Suite 19 Norridge, Il. 60706 Phone: (708)-867-3338