Toenails & ingrown toenail treatments, Geelong

There are a range of conditions that can affect the toenails of your feet which require the diagnosis and treatment of our Geelong podiatrists. They can occur at any age – from children through to adults.

Some of the common toenail conditions we treat at podiatry@belmont include:

• Ingrown toenail treatment
  An ingrown toenail is when the growing edge of the toenail penetrates the surrounding skin. Signs and symptoms will vary depending on the severity of the condition. An ingrown toenail can occur on any toe, however most occur on the big toe. Causes can include tight shoes or socks, incorrect toenail trimming or an inherited tendency for toenails to curve inward. When the toenail breaks the skin, serious infection can result and it is important to seek a podiatrists opinion.  Our Geelong Podiatrists will first assess the toenail to identify the best treatment option.  If the ingrown toenail is minor, a simple conservative approach of toenail shaping and advice or Onyfix Nail Correction system with nail bracing maybe required.  If the ingrown toenail is longstanding or has penetrated the skin with surrounding inflammation, minor toenail surgery (partial toenail avulsion with phenolisation) maybe the most effective treatment option.  Our Geelong podiatrists, Lyndal McGuire and Amelia Ling have a special interest in toenail surgery, are trained in the application of Onyfix Nail Correction system and can provide you with the most experienced and up to date knowledge and practice if toenail surgery is required.

• Toenail fungus (Onychomycosis)
  Toenail fungus and tinea pedis (fungal infection of the skin) usually coexist and can be caused by the same type of fungus.  When the infections coexist, treatment needs to address both the skin and toenails. Medications are available to help treat fungus and our podiatrists can advise you on the appropriate treatment.

• Thickened toenails
  Thickened toenails are the result of injury to the toenail, whether it is from dropping something heavy on your toes or a fungal infection. Depending on the severity, our Geelong podiatrists will treat your condition by easily and painlessly thinning down the toenail.

• Trauma
  Toenail trauma can lead to permanent toenail deformity. This can be cared for with regular, non-painful treatment, depending on the degree of trauma.

Please contact us to book an appointment if you have any concerns about your toenails and possible toenail conditions. We also provide a children’s podiatrist service so we can diagnose and treat toenail conditions in children as well.