Ingrown Toenails Specialist

An ingrown toenail can cause intense pain that worsens as the nail digs deeper into your skin. With locations in Kingston, New Windsor, Wappingers Falls, Hudson, and West Coxsackie, New York, the board-certified podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons at Hudson Valley Foot Associates provide in-office, same-day treatment for ingrown toenails. Call Hudson Valley Foot Associates or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What are ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. As a result, the skin becomes tender, red, and inflamed. Ingrown toenails can even lead to severe infection. While ingrown nails can affect any of your nails, they commonly occur in the big toe. Treating an ingrown toenail early may help you avoid complications that require surgery.

What are the symptoms of ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails aren’t always obvious at first. The skin around your nail may feel hard and tender. However, as the nail deepens, it can cause:

• Intense pain
• Redness
• Visible swelling
• Fluid buildup
• Skin that feels tender to the touch

If you have an advanced ingrown toenail, the skin may wrap over the nail due to severe swelling.

What causes ingrown toenails?

Many factors can increase your risk of developing ingrown toenails, including:

• Cutting your toenails at a curved angle
• Wearing narrow or flat shoes
• Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on your foot
• Having sweaty feet
• Wearing unwashed socks
• Poor foot hygiene
• Poor posture
• Having a family history of ingrown toenails

Playing certain sports, such as soccer and running, also makes you more vulnerable to injuries that cause ingrown toenails.

What are the treatments for ingrown toenails?

Most ingrown toenails respond well to nonsurgical treatments. Soaking your feet may help soften the skin, making it easier to pull away from the nail. Unfortunately, surgical intervention may be your best option if the nail is embedded too deeply.

At Hudson Valley Foot Associates, your doctor may recommend either partial or complete removal of the affected nail. This treatment involves surgically removing the portion of the nail growing into the skin and a small amount of the nail bed. Your doctor may also remove a portion of the surrounding tissue to prevent infection.

Some people are highly prone to recurrent ingrown toenails, especially children and teens. If you or your child gets chronic ingrown toenails, permanent removal of the damaged nail can help prevent a recurrence. 

Infections are common when you have an advanced ingrown toenail. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and prevent new damage. To learn more about ingrown toenails, call Hudson Valley Foot Associates or schedule an appointment online today.