Ingrown toenails can be a very painful condition that can interfere with your daily routine. Oftentimes, the only solution is to have it removed through a minor surgical procedure. But what happens after the procedure? Is it normal to experience pain? In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect after removing your ingrown toenail and how to ensure a speedy recovery.
Contents of Article
Post-Operative Pain
After getting your ingrown toenail removed, you will most likely experience some discomfort and pain. This is normal and can last for a few days. Taking over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen can help with the pain. If the pain persists or intensifies, you should contact your doctor immediately, as this may indicate an infection.
Why does it still hurt after removal?
If you’ve recently removed an ingrown toenail, you may be wondering why it still hurts. After all, getting rid of the offending nail should have solved the problem, right? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. In some instances, the pain and discomfort associated with an ingrown toenail can persist even after the nail has been removed.
One possible reason for continued pain is that the nail may not have been removed completely. If even a small portion of the nail is left behind, it can continue to grow into the skin and cause pain and inflammation. Additionally, if the area around the nail becomes infected, it can lead to further discomfort and delay healing.
Another reason why your removed ingrown toenail may still hurt is that the nail bed may have been damaged during the removal process. This can happen if the nail was forcibly removed or if the area was not properly cleaned and disinfected before and after the procedure. In some cases, the nail bed may take several weeks or even months to fully heal, during which time you may experience pain, tenderness, and swelling.
Dressing Changes
After the procedure, your toe will be bandaged, and you will need to keep it dry. Your doctor will recommend how often the dressing should be changed and how to do it properly. Keeping the area clean and dry is extremely important to prevent infection. If you notice any discharge or foul odor, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Limited Activity
You will need to limit your activities for a few days after the procedure. This means avoiding any strenuous physical activity or anything involving standing or walking for extended periods. It is important to keep your foot elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling and pain.
Recovery Time
The recovery time after getting your ingrown toenail removed varies from person to person. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to fully recover. Following your doctor’s instructions and taking any prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection is important.
Prevention
To prevent ingrown toenails from occurring in the future, it is important to take good care of your feet. This includes wearing properly fitting shoes, trimming your toenails straight across, and avoiding cutting them too short. If you do develop another ingrown toenail, it is important to seek medical attention early to avoid further complications.
Conclusion
Getting your ingrown toenail removed can be a painful experience, but it is necessary to prevent further complications. After the procedure, following your doctor’s instructions is important, keeping the area clean and dry, and taking any prescribed antibiotics to ensure a speedy recovery. Remember to take good care of your feet to prevent ingrown toenails from occurring in the future. If you experience any prolonged pain or unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
