Many people avoid treating their ingrown toenails thinking that the surgery might hurt more than the pain already being inflicted from a nail that grows repeatedly into the skin. Some might have needle phobia. Others just want to keep their natural nail shape, but get rid of the painful nuisance. Now it is possible to treat many of the ingrown toenails with a non-invasive and pain-free procedure, with a new nail correction system.
Onyfix is like wearing braces on your toenails to correct their shape as they grow. It can be applied the same day of your visit and the full results are seen in about three months. Meanwhile, the patient continues with everyday life activities, including swimming. And regular nail polish can be used over the bracing line. The system works by keeping your nail flat from the base, avoiding any deformity.
Ingrown toenail causes
The most common causes for ingrown toenails are having a history of an ingrown nail, having lost a nail at some point, wearing shoes that are too small, tight and narrow or it can stem from nails that become too thick. Genetics also play a role. While we recommend self-care with warm soaks and avoiding shoes that worsen the condition, we strongly advise against attempting “bathroom surgery”.
Trying to remove the ingrown nail yourself increases the risk of infection and, without anesthesia, it’s particularly difficult to tolerate getting to the actual edge of the toenail as they are buried in the skin. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, especially if it looks infected, schedule an appointment ASAP.
Same-day appointments
At Central Massachusetts Podiatry, we try to fit these emergencies on the same day to eliminate the problem immediately. Call 508-757-4003, if that's the case.
By the time many patients seek professional care, there is infection present along the ingrowing nail, needing for a minor procedure involving removal of the affected nail border. This can be performed in the office same day, and may be performed as a permanent removal to prevent recurrence.
