Dr. Timothy Gardner, DPM is the podiatrist to call when you have an ingrown toenail in Knoxville, TN. We can treat ingrown toenails, but you can also help prevent them with regular foot care. Read more about how you can take the best care of your toenails and call us if you notice an ingrown nail.

Ingrown Nails

Ingrown toenails happen when the sides of the toenail have grown into the flesh of the toe. This causes redness and swelling and can be very painful. Ingrown toenails also leave you vulnerable to infection, but we treat ingrown toenails to keep your feet healthy.

At Gardner Family Foot and Ankle in Knoxville, TN, we treat many diabetic patients because diabetics have decreased sensitivity in their extremities making them even more prone to ingrown toenails becoming infected. If you are diabetic you should see a podiatrist at least once a year and examine your feet every day.

Preventing Ingrown Nails

To prevent ingrown toenails, three main practices can help keep your feet healthy:

• Appropriate footwear Wear comfortable, supportive shoes with a large toe box that gives your toes enough room to wiggle. Tighter shoes or high heels that shove the toes together can contribute to ingrown nails. Wear clean, dry socks and shoes each day, and rotate shoes if you can so they completely dry out between wears. Ask your foot doctor for recommendations for footwear for your favorite sports or activities.
• Maintain your toenails. Cut the toenails straight across (no rounded corners) regularly to prevent ingrown toenails and potential infections. Toenails should be cute even to the tip of the toe.
• Daily foot care inspect your feet each day and wash and completely dry them before putting on your footwear. This is especially important for diabetics to notice any minor abrasions that could become infected.

Treat Ingrown Nails Now

If you have ingrown nails, do not hesitate to contact your podiatrist for treatment. Ingrown toenails leave you vulnerable to infection, so come see us as soon as you can. To make an appointment with Dr. Timothy Gardner, DPM, contact Gardner Family Foot and Ankle Clinic in Knoxville, TN at (865) 218-7474.