Why is lidocaine local anaesthetic used in ingrown toenail treatment?

An ingrown nail can press into the surrounding skin, which may be tender or inflamed. Lidocaine is injected around the base or side of the toe to temporarily block pain signals in that local area. This lets the clinician examine the nail edge, lift or remove the troublesome portion when needed, and clean the area without relying on general anaesthesia. You may still notice pressure, movement, or touch, even though sharp pain should be reduced.

Tell the clinician about previous reactions to local anaesthetics, medicines you take, allergies, and any bleeding or circulation concerns. Keep the dressing clean and follow the individual aftercare instructions, including advice about footwear, bathing, and activity. Contact the clinic if you are unsure when to change a dressing or restart a usual activity.

Seek prompt assessment for increasing redness, spreading warmth, swelling, pus, fever, severe worsening pain, or a toe that becomes unusually pale, blue, cold, or numb. These changes can need a clinician to check the wound and circulation. If an ingrown nail keeps returning or makes walking difficult, arrange a non-urgent review to discuss treatment options.

You might ask which part of the nail will be treated, what sensation to expect while the anaesthetic is working, how to care for the toe at home, and which changes should prompt you to call the clinic.