When White Sox player Avisail Garcia had an ingrown toenail surgically removed recently, the team’s manager, Robin Ventura, had thought that he would need a day off to rest. But they don’t call Garcia a “monster” for nothing. The shortstop was back to play the very next day, and performed all of his duties without any major problems throughout the game.

Garcia’s batting average was .304 last season, and he also racked up 21 RBIs. “I want to be consistent and get better,’’ Garcia said. “Put up better numbers and help my teammates.”

For most people, ingrown toenails are a painful nuisance. If you need assistance with this or similar conditions, consult podiatrist Dr. Nicholas Crismali, DPM of Crismali Foot and Ankle. Dr. Crismali will explain the different types of care that are available for ingrown toenails and help you decide on the right one for you.

Ingrown Toenails Causes

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

There are a number of risk factors for ingrown toenails. Some include cutting your nails too short, participating in strenuous sports, diabetes, obesity, and fungal infection. Some are genetically predisposed to ingrown nails, although wearing ill-fitting or damp shoes can exacerbate the problem.

Treatment

There are a number of steps you can take to treat ingrown nails:

-Let your toenails grow out
-Soak the toes in hot water with antibiotic soap or Epsom salts
-Placing a piece of cotton under the affected nail may allow the toe to grow up instead of into the nail bed
-Rest with your feet up

If however, your pain is severe, or you see red streaks running up your leg, you should see a podiatrist. Your podiatrist may make a small incision and remove part of the toe nail to relieve the pressure. A local anesthetic may be used to lessen the discomfort of the operation.  Topical medication may also be prescribed to prevent the regrowth of the problem nail. You will probably have to stay off your feet for a day or so, but should be able to carry on normal activities quickly.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Hesperia, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

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