Ingrown Toenail problems

Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, are usually caused by trimming toenails too short – particularly on the sides of the big toes. They can also be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight, fungus infection, injury, poor foot structure, or heredity.

Ingrown toenails occur when the sides or corners of the toenail dig into the skin – this often causes the infection.  They start out hard, swollen, and tender. When left untreated, they might become sore and infected and the skin might start to grow over the ingrown toenail.

If you have experienced an ingrown toenail in the past, you would know how uncomfortable and painful it can get.

You do not want a repeat of that experience but sometimes, an ingrown toenail will develop again eventually.

Great news!

Dr. Sherman Nagler is offering a permanent relief from ingrown toenails and ingrown toenail infection right in his podiatry office with a minor surgical procedure.

Ingrown Toenail Remedy

In most cases, treating ingrown toenails is quite simple. You just have to soak the foot in warm, salt water for several times every day. Wearing tight shoes or socks are not advisable as it can worsen the foot’s condition.

Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if there is an infection present.

Ingrown Toenail Surgery

In more severe cases, surgical removal of the part of the ingrown toenail may be needed if an acute infection occurs. The procedure, known as plate avulsion, involves freezing the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.

The laser ingrown toenail treatment is performed painlessly – with the use of local anesthetic. If you are anxious about the pain, don’t worry, your toe is frozen. The painful ingrown side of the nail will be removed. The part of the root causing the problem will be treated with the carbon dioxide laser and a special chemical.

Afterwards, a small bandage will be put on your toe and you can walk immediately. At home, post-operative care requires you to apply an ointment and a band aid to the affected toe. Dr. Sherman Nagler will instruct you to come back to his foot clinic a few times, to make sure the toe is healing properly.

Contact the Nagler Foot Center at 713-893-5620 or visit to schedule an appointment for laser therapy with Houston podiatrist, Sherman Nagler, M.D. This summer, wear open-toe sandals with confidence, showing off clear, fungi-free toenails and beautiful, healthy feet.