Ingrown toenails are a common but painful foot condition that can interfere with your daily life. At Seattle Foot and Ankle Center, Dr. John Hoy provides expert diagnosis and effective treatment for ingrown toenails, helping patients throughout the Seattle area find fast relief and long-term solutions.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition most commonly affects the big toe but can happen on any toe.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails:
Improper nail trimming – Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges increases the risk.
Tight footwear – Shoes that crowd the toes can push nails into the skin.
Injury – Trauma to the toe can cause abnormal nail growth.
Genetics – Some people inherit naturally curved toenails.
Poor foot hygiene – Increases risk of infection if the skin is broken.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you suspect an ingrown toenail, look for these symptoms:
Pain or tenderness along the sides of the toenail
Redness or swelling around the nail
Pus or drainage (a sign of infection)
Warmth or increased sensitivity in the affected area
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications like infection or abscess formation.
When to See a Podiatrist
While mild cases can sometimes be managed at home, it’s important to see a podiatrist if:
Symptoms persist for more than a few days
You notice signs of infection (pus, swelling, or fever)
You have diabetes or poor circulation
You experience recurring ingrown toenails
Dr. John Hoy specializes in treating ingrown toenails with gentle, advanced techniques that minimize discomfort and downtime.
Ingrown Toenail Treatments at Seattle Foot and Ankle Center
At Seattle Foot and Ankle Center, we offer several treatment options based on the severity of your condition:
1. Conservative Care
Warm salt soaks
Topical antibiotics
Nail trimming guidance
2. In-Office Nail Removal (Partial Nail Avulsion)
If conservative methods fail, Dr. Hoy may perform a minor in-office procedure to remove the ingrown portion of the nail under local anesthesia.
3. Permanent Nail Matrix Removal (Matrixectomy)
For recurring cases, a matrixectomy may be recommended to permanently prevent the problematic nail edge from growing back.
These procedures are safe, quick, and highly effective with minimal recovery time.
Preventing Future Ingrown Toenails
Dr. Hoy provides patients with personalized foot care advice to help avoid future problems:
Always trim nails straight across (not rounded)
Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
Keep feet clean and dry
Avoid self-treating if you have diabetes or circulation issues
Schedule Your Ingrown Toenail Appointment Today
If you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail in Seattle, don’t wait. Prompt treatment by an experienced Seattle podiatrist like Dr. John Hoy can relieve pain and prevent complications.
Seattle Foot and Ankle Center
Call us at (206) 682-8741
Book an appointment online
Why Choose Dr. John Hoy?
Board-certified podiatrist with years of clinical experience
Trusted care for Seattle and surrounding communities
Compassionate, personalized foot and ankle treatments
Let us help you get back on your feet — pain-free.