Symptoms & Warning Signs

You may notice:

• Pain, tenderness, or throbbing around the nail edge
• Redness, swelling, or warmth in the skin next to the nail
• Drainage, pus, or signs of infection if the skin has broken down
• Recurring or chronic nail problems in the same area

How We Treat Ingrown Toenails

At Michigan Avenue Podiatry, we tailor treatment to your specific condition — from conservative care to minor surgery:

Conservative / Non-Surgical Options:

• Soaking & Hygiene: Warm, soapy or saline soaks help soften the skin and reduce inflammation.
• Nail Care Support: We may gently lift the ingrown portion of the nail and place sterile cotton or dental floss underneath to guide proper regrowth.
• Topical Treatments: Antibiotic ointments can help if there is mild infection; we advise on proper wound dressing.
• Pressure Offloading: Wearing shoes with a wider toe box and avoiding tight footwear reduces pressure on the affected nail.

In-Office / Surgical Treatments:

• Partial Nail Avulsion: We numb your toe, remove the ingrown nail edge, and reshape it to prevent it from digging into soft tissue.
• Chemical Matricectomy (e.g. Phenol): For recurrent ingrown toenails, we may apply a chemical to the nail root to prevent that portion from regrowing.
• Total Nail Removal (When Needed): In very severe or chronic cases, removing the entire nail may be recommended, sometimes followed by treatment to prevent regrowth.
• Post-Procedure Care: After surgery, you’ll receive proper wound care guidance, pain management, and follow-up to prevent recurrence.

Preventing Recurrence

To reduce the risk of ingrown toenails coming back:

• Trim your nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
• Wear shoes that fit properly with enough room in the toe box.
• Keep your feet clean and dry to minimize irritation and infection.
• Regularly inspect your toes — especially if you have diabetes or reduced foot sensation.
• Consider periodic follow-up with a podiatrist if you have recurrent ingrown nails.

Why Choose Michigan Avenue Podiatry

• Our board-certified podiatrists specialize in nail disorders and have extensive experience managing ingrown toenails.
• We offer gentle, yet effective treatments — from conservative care to minor surgical solutions.
• We prioritize recurrence prevention, using proven methods like matrixectomy when necessary.
• Our long-term care model ensures follow-up and support, helping you avoid repeated pain.

Take the Next Step — Book Your Appointment

If an ingrown toenail is causing you pain or you’ve had this problem before, don’t wait. Call us at 312-701-0770 or schedule a podiatry consultation online. Let our experts evaluate and treat the issue properly — for lasting relief.