How to remove an ingrown toenail

Nov 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Insert cotton beneath the nail on both sides of the ingrown nail. As the cotton gradually increases in size, it will help evert the ingrown nail and allow it to grow out normally. This method is suitable for mild cases of ingrown nails. After disinfection, instruments such as clamps or forceps can be carefully used to assist in flipping out the nail. This procedure usually needs to be performed under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional or therapist to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Generally, an ingrown nail can be treated by physical therapy, instrument-assisted methods, partial nail avulsion, total nail removal, or nail groove reconstruction. Details are as follows:

1. Physical therapy: Insert cotton beneath the nail on both sides of the ingrown portion. As the cotton gradually expands, it helps the ingrown nail to evert and grow outward. This method is suitable for mild cases of ingrown nails.

2. Instrument-assisted method: After disinfection, tools such as clamps or forceps are carefully used to assist in lifting the nail edge. This procedure usually needs to be performed under the guidance of a qualified physician or therapist to ensure safety and effectiveness.

3. Partial nail avulsion: In more severe cases of ingrown nails, localized treatments alone may not adequately address nail overgrowth and outward growth. In such cases, partial removal of the ingrown nail may be necessary, helping the nail to regrow and evert properly during the regrowth process.

4. Total nail removal: In more severe cases, complete removal of the nail may be considered. After removal, inflammation is controlled to encourage the regrowth of the nail with an outward curvature.

5. Nail groove reconstruction: If ingrown nails recur frequently, procedures such as nail groove reconstruction or removal of excess soft tissue may be necessary to allow the nail to regrow with a normal shape.

If the ingrown nail is severe or accompanied by symptoms such as infection or pus formation, self-treatment should not be attempted, and immediate medical attention should be sought for diagnosis and treatment. When managing an ingrown nail, patience and careful handling are essential to avoid excessive force or rough manipulation, which could worsen symptoms or cause unnecessary injury.

View All

What causes ingrown nails?

Ingrown nails refer to onychocryptosis, which may be caused by improper nail trimming, inappropriate footwear, congenital nail deformities, paronychia, trauma, or other factors. If you experience any discomfort, seek medical attention promptly and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. In daily life, it is important to trim nails properly, maintain an appropriate nail length, and avoid cutting them too short or trimming excessively deep along the sides.

View Full Answer

What happens if you keep ignoring an ingrown toenail without trimming it?

Ingrown nail refers to the condition where the nail plate penetrates the surrounding skin tissue. Generally, if left untrimmed, ingrown nails may lead to nail thickening and deformation, granulation tissue proliferation, paronychia, purulent fingertip inflammation, lymphangitis, and lymphedema. It is recommended to monitor nail growth in daily life. If ingrown nails occur, timely trimming is advised; if the condition is severe, prompt medical attention and professional treatment are necessary.

View Full Answer

The Strongest Ointment for Treating Infected Ingrown Toenail (Paronychia)

In general, once paronychia has developed with suppuration, it is recommended to use medications such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid sodium ointment, compound cod liver oil oxide zinc ointment, and ichthammol ointment according to medical advice. The treatment of suppurative paronychia should involve selecting appropriate ointments under medical guidance for topical application. Meanwhile, maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the affected area and avoiding irritation and friction can aid in recovery.

View Full Answer

What are the causes of pain in the right big toe?

Pain in the right big toe may be caused by overuse of the toe, aging, wearing ill-fitting shoes, ingrown toenails, or gouty arthritis. Overuse can place excessive strain on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons around the big toe joint, leading to inflammation and pain. Rest and avoid repetitive movements that cause pain. Switch to comfortable, loose-fitting shoes and avoid prolonged standing or walking.