Ingrown Toenail Treatment
Conservative and surgical management of ingrown toenails, under local anaesthetic.
An ingrown toenail is disproportionately painful for how small it is, and it rarely resolves on its own once infection is involved. Conservative treatment settles many of them; where it keeps returning, a minor procedure under local anaesthetic deals with it permanently.
What's involved
Conservative treatment
Removing the offending nail spicule and treating any infection. For a first episode this is often all that's needed.
Partial nail avulsion
Removing the ingrowing border under local anaesthetic. The nail keeps its normal appearance.
Chemical matrixectomy
Treating the nail matrix so the problem border doesn't regrow. Used for recurrent cases.
Aftercare
Dressing, a review appointment, and clear instructions — including what to watch for and when to call.
What to expect
Your appointment, stage by stage.
Assessment
History, physical examination, gait and movement analysis, and objective strength testing where it's relevant. We're building a picture of what the limb can currently tolerate.
Diagnosis
A clear explanation of what's happening and why — in plain language, with the reasoning shown. Imaging or onward referral where it will change the plan.
Treatment
A staged plan combining manual therapy, exercise prescription, footwear or orthotic support and activity modification, weighted to what your presentation actually needs.
Follow-up
Re-testing against the baseline so progress is measured, not assumed, and the plan adjusts as capacity improves.
Common questions
Nail Surgery, answered.
Does the procedure hurt?
The local anaesthetic injection is the uncomfortable part and it's brief. The procedure itself shouldn't be painful, and most people are surprised how straightforward it is.
How long until I can play sport again?
Usually a few days for most activity, a little longer for anything involving contact or tight boots. We'll give you a specific answer based on your sport.
Will the nail look normal afterwards?
For a partial avulsion, generally yes — the remaining nail grows normally and the difference is minor.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're in pain, an assessment is the only way to know what's actually happening — book online or call 9284 0736.
