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Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Brighton, MI

Ingrown toenails occur when the corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and sometimes infection. The good news is that evaluation and treatment are almost always handled in a single visit — so relief is usually just one appointment away.

Ingrown toenails, also called onychocryptosis, are most frequently caused by genetics. Other causes include tight fitting shoes or trauma to the nail root, which is where the nail originates from — located several millimeters past where the visible nail grows out. Damage to the nail root can cause the nail to grow abnormally, resulting in increased thickness, color changes, or a nail that grows into the surrounding skin.

In mild cases, Dr. Castelein can trim the nail on a slant to remove the painful portion immediately. This requires no recovery time and provides instant relief, though it may be temporary if the nail grows back into the same position.

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1-810-227-3864

Conservative Care

For mild cases there are several conservative options Dr. Castelein may try before recommending surgery:

  • Trimming the nail on a slant or performing a nail slant back in office to temporarily relieve pain
  • Lifting the nail with a nail elevator to separate it from the skin
  • Using dental floss or a small splint to gently guide the nail away from the skin
  • Taping the surrounding skin to pull it away from the nail

These measures aim to reduce irritation and allow the nail to grow out without digging into the skin. However symptoms can return as the nail grows back, making permanent treatment the preferred option for chronic cases.

Partial Nail Removal (Matrixectomy)

For a permanent solution, Dr. Castelein may recommend a matrixectomy — the removal of the ingrown nail portion on a permanent basis. Typically only a small corner of the nail is removed, though a full nail matrixectomy can be performed if needed.

Ingrown Nails-Avulsions Treatment and Surgery

Matrixectomy process involves a few steps:

  1. First, Dr. Castelein numbs the affected toe with local anesthetic to ensure the procedure is painless. 
  2. Next, a cut is made through the piece of the nail from the tip to the root to completely remove the painful portion of the nail. 
  3. After removal, Dr. Castelein treats the base of the nail under the cuticle (known as the nail matrix) with topical medications. These medications are used with the intent to permanently prevent the small corner of the nail from returning. This eliminates future concerns and pain while providing a great cosmetic appearance. 
  4. Finally, you are able to walk out of the office. Quick, painless care and epsom salt foot soaks are needed for a few days until the skin heals. Most patients return to full activity and shoes the day after the procedure.

If an ingrown toenail is left untreated and penetrates the skin, there is a risk of local infection spreading to the bone. It is important to seek treatment early and not wait for symptoms to worsen. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or odor from the toe.

Avulsion

An avulsion involves the complete removal of the toenail and is typically recommended after trauma to the nail or nail bed, or when the nail is severely thickened, yellowed, or hardened from fungus.

Avulsion, broken down:

  1. The avulsion process begins by numbing the affected toe with a local anesthetic to ensure that no pain is felt during the procedure. 
  2. When numb, Dr. Castelein will detach and remove the nail. He will then clean and remove any overgrown tissue to the nail area. 
  3. The nail will regrow naturally over time — a typical big toenail takes nine to twelve months to reach full length. If you’d prefer the nail not grow back, Dr. Castelein can combine matrixectomy techniques during the same procedure.

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Ready to Get Rid of That Ingrown Toenail?

Most ingrown toenail procedures are quick, in-office, and virtually painless. Book online or call us — same-week appointments are usually available.

1-810-227-3864
Schedule Online

What Our Clients Think

Client Testimonials

Julie
I'm so happy to have found Brighton Foot And Ankle in Brighton. The office staff and assistant are very pleasant. Dr. Bryant Castelein is a great knowledgeable Dr. Who has eased my worry over my medical condition. Plus he's handsome. I would highly recommend this practice for anyone needing podiatry help.
Amy
What great people to help you! From receptionist to doctor, they are top notch! You would not regret going here for any of your foot/ankle problems, they will fix you up with the utmost care and compassion.
Yo K
Dr. Castelein and staff were friendly, knowledgeable , efficient and took the time to get to know me and understand my medical needs. I would not hesitate to go to Brighton Foot & Ankle. They go out of their way to treat their patients like family.
Robert
Dr. Castelein is great; he is very nice, patient, and professional. His staff is also excellent and friendly. It's only been about three hours since having my big toenail removed and, with acetaminophen and ibuprofen, there is very little pain(sometimes I completely forget about it); he did an excellent job. Overall, I am very impressed with Dr. Casteleins Practice and I would highly recommend his office.
Joseph
Doctor & staff were so professional, friendly & efficient. I had a high risk condition that they expertly guided me through 5 months of healing. Thankfully a full recovery. I give them my best recommendation.
Lexi
Very friendly and accommodating front desk staff. Dr. Castelein and Jennifer always take their time and do an amazing job! Great variety of quick pick up over the counter products that are always affordable too. Best experience I have had at an office.
Christena
Dr. Castelein is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable in his field. During my visit he did a great job explaining my situation and was very encouraging of any questions. I never felt rushed and I believe to have received the best care possible. Highly recommend this doctor and this facility.
Nicole C
Excellent staff and exceptional doctor. I went in with Bunion issues. Dr. Castelein listened to my concerns and addressed my options. 4 days post-op bunion surgery I can say he did an amazing job. Best experience I have ever had. I would definitely recommend; I promise you won't look further.
Ashley
The staff and Dr. Castelein are all amazing. They are polite and very respectful. I came to see them in 2019 for bunion and hammer toe issues among some others. Dr. Castelein and his assistant listened to my concerns and gave me my options. He explained everything to me in detail and all my questions were answered.. I have seen other podiatrists and he is beyond the best. I would recommend him to anyone.
Alex
Friendly staff and intelligent doctor! I went in for some ankle X-rays and was given a great strategy on the different ways to heal my ankle, and how to progress forward if less invasive treatment doesn't help. I would highly recommend them to anyone with foot or ankle problems!