Is ingrown toenail treatment done with lidocaine local anaesthetic?

A clinician may inject lidocaine near the base of the toe to temporarily block sensation. The toe is checked for numbness before the nail edge or a small portion of nail is treated. You may still feel pressure or movement, but sharp sensation should be reduced. The exact approach depends on the nail, infection or inflammation, other health conditions, allergies and the procedure planned.

Tell the clinician about previous reactions to local anaesthetics, regular medicines, circulation problems, diabetes or medicines that affect bleeding. Wear footwear that leaves room around the toe after treatment and follow the dressing and wound-care instructions. Keep the area clean and avoid soaking it until advised. As numbness fades, protect the toe from heat, pressure and accidental knocks.

Ask for medical review if pain becomes severe as the numbness wears off, bleeding does not settle with firm pressure, redness spreads, swelling increases, pus develops, or fever occurs. Seek urgent help for facial or throat swelling, wheezing, faintness or widespread hives after the injection, as these may indicate a serious reaction.

Ask which part of the toe will be numbed, what sensations to expect, how long numbness may last, which pain relief is suitable, and how to reduce the chance of recurrence.