What is ingrown toenail treatment done with?

A clinician examines the toe and checks for inflammation or infection. If a procedure is needed, local anaesthetic such as lidocaine is injected near the toe to numb it while the nail edge or a small section of nail is treated. Sterile instruments are used, followed by a dressing.

The approach depends on how deeply the nail edge has entered the skin, whether there is infection and whether the problem has returned. Treatment is different from simply cutting the nail shorter at home.

Keep the dressing clean and dry for the time advised, wear roomy footwear and avoid digging into the nail corner. Take only the pain relief recommended for you. Do not share nail tools, and trim future nails across rather than cutting deeply into the sides.

If an infection is suspected, the clinician may discuss additional treatment. Follow the wound-care instructions and attend a review if one is arranged.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, worsening pain, fever or difficulty walking. Seek earlier advice if you have diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation or a weakened immune system, because a toe wound may need closer monitoring.

Ask whether you need a procedure, which part of the nail will be treated, how to care for the dressing and what footwear is safe while the toe heals.