Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Katy
Ingrown Toenail Relief Starts Here
Dealing with a painful toenail that just won’t heal? At Advanced Ankle & Foot in Katy, we specialize in treating conditions that affect your feet and toes—including stubborn ingrown toenails. What may seem like a small problem can quickly turn into something more serious if it’s left untreated. That’s why our team offers fast, effective solutions to ease your pain and help you get back on your feet.
Led by Dr. Scott C. Burdge, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon with over 26 years of experience, our practice provides care for patients of all ages. From minor discomfort to infected or recurring nail issues, we take a personalized, detail-oriented approach to every case.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows sideways into the skin, rather than extending straight out. The condition most commonly affects the big toe, but it can occur on any toenail. As the nail grows improperly, the skin becomes irritated and inflamed. This can lead to swelling, redness, and sharp pain—especially when walking or wearing shoes.
Though many cases are mild, ignoring an ingrown nail can cause more damage over time, particularly for people with underlying conditions like diabetes or poor circulation.
Why They Shouldn’t be Ignored
While it’s tempting to wait and hope the problem resolves on its own, untreated ingrown nails can lead to infection. Infections may start with pus or drainage but can progress into more serious complications, such as a deep tissue infection or damage to the surrounding bone.
People with diabetes, nerve damage, or vascular issues are especially vulnerable. Because they may not feel pain or notice early signs, even a small injury like an ingrown toenail can lead to ulcers, severe infections, or in rare cases, amputation.
That’s why timely treatment is essential. At Advanced Ankle & Foot, we offer both conservative care and minor in-office procedures to address the issue before it escalates.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails
Several factors can increase your risk of developing this condition:
- Cutting nails too short or with rounded edges
- Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow
- Injuries, such as stubbing your toe or repetitive pressure from sports
- Naturally curved nails or genetic predisposition
- Poor foot hygiene or sweaty feet
- Nail infections or fungal growth
Treatment Options
Treatment begins with a thorough exam and a review of your symptoms. Depending on the severity, we offer several options to relieve pain and promote proper nail growth:
Conservative Approaches
For early-stage cases with mild pain and no infection, conservative treatment may include:
- Nail lifting: We gently place a small piece of cotton or gauze beneath the nail to separate it from the skin, allowing the nail to grow out correctly.
- Antibiotic ointments: Used to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Partial Nail Removal
If there’s pain, swelling, or infection, a partial nail avulsion may be necessary. After numbing the area, Dr. Burdge removes the portion of the nail that’s embedded in the skin. This procedure offers fast relief and has a short recovery time.
Permanent Nail Removal
For recurring cases, we may recommend permanently removing a portion of the nail root. This is done with a chemical treatment, like phenol, or with surgical precision. The result is a thinner nail that no longer causes irritation, offering a long-term solution for chronic ingrown toenails.
What to Expect After Treatment
Recovery depends on the type of treatment, but most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Keeping the area clean and dry
- Wearing open-toed or loose-fitting shoes
- Using prescribed ointments or pain relief
- Returning for follow-up if needed
Schedule an Appointment with a Toenail Doctor in Katy
You don’t need to live with foot pain or try risky DIY fixes. At our Katy clinic, Dr. Scott C. Burdge provides expert care for ingrown toenails using safe, effective, and personalized techniques. Whether it’s a simple procedure or ongoing management, we’re here to help you walk without pain again.
Katy Office
- 21524 Kingsland Blvd, Katy, TX 77450
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Mon: 8am - 5pm
Tues: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thur: 8am - 5pm
Fri: 9am - 5pm
