Are antibiotics always required for an ingrown toe nail?

Information  •  Sat 31 Dec 2022

Ingrown toenails can be painful and annoying, and it's natural to want to get rid of them as quickly as possible. But in many cases, antibiotics are not the answer. Instead, the key to resolving an ingrown toenail is to have a podiatrist remove the causative nail spicule or the piece of nail that is digging into the skin.

An ingrown toenail occurs when a nail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to pain, swelling, and redness. In some cases, an ingrown toenail can become infected; antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection. However, in many cases, the infection can be resolved simply by removing the nail spicule.

Removing a nail spicule is not a task that should be attempted at home. It requires careful technique and specialized tools to remove the spicule safely and effectively. A podiatrist is trained in the proper techniques for removing ingrown nail spicules and can do so with minimal discomfort to the patient.

Once the spicule has been removed, the podiatrist may recommend other treatment options to prevent the nail from growing back into the skin. This may include trimming the nail to a proper length and shape or prescribing medication to soften the nail.

It's important to note that removing the nail spicule is not a one-time fix. To prevent the nail from growing back into the skin, it's crucial to maintain proper nail hygiene and trim your nails straight across, avoiding rounding the edges. Wearing shoes that fit correctly and provide ample room for the toes can also help prevent ingrown toenails.

In conclusion, while antibiotics may be necessary in some cases of infected ingrown toenails, in many cases, the key to resolving the issue is to have a podiatrist remove the causative nail spicule.

By seeking the help of a trained professional and maintaining proper nail hygiene, you can help prevent ingrown toenails from occurring in the first place.

Nail surgery may be the best solution for individuals with reoccurring ingrown toenails.

Nail surgery, also known as partial nail avulsion, involves removing the portion of the nail that is causing the problem. This can be done with a local anesthetic and is typically a quick and relatively painless procedure.
After the surgery, the nail will grow back healthy and normal, eliminating the risk of future ingrown toenails.

While it's a more invasive treatment, nail surgery can provide a permanent solution for individuals with persistent ingrown toenails. Nail surgery may be a solution if you're struggling with reoccurring ingrown toenails.

Suppose you're struggling with ingrown toenails and are looking for a solution. In that case, we encourage you to seek the help of an experienced podiatrist. They can assess your condition and recommend the best treatment to help you find relief and prevent future problems.

Don't let ingrown toenails hold you back any longer – take control of your foot health by booking an appointment today.