Ingrown Toenail Pain? We Can Usually Relieve It the Same Day.
QUICK ANSWER
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and sometimes infection. Dr. Vohra treats ingrown toenails with a quick, well-tolerated in-office procedure — most patients experience immediate pain relief. Same-day appointments are available for acute, painful cases.
Why Ingrown Toenails Happen
Ingrown toenails are one of the most common — and most avoidable — foot problems we see. The most frequent causes include improper nail trimming (cutting too short or rounding the corners), tight or narrow shoes that crowd the toes, injury to the toe, and in some cases, genetics that predispose the nail to curve inward.
Athletes are especially prone to ingrown toenails — repetitive pressure from running, court sports, and tight athletic footwear are common triggers. If you play pickleball, tennis, or run regularly, you’re at higher risk.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Home treatment is sometimes appropriate for very mild cases — but see a podiatrist promptly if you notice any of these.
Increasing Redness
Redness spreading beyond the nail edge can signal a developing infection.
Drainage or Pus
Any discharge from the site is a sign of active infection requiring treatment.
Warmth & Swelling
Increased warmth around the toe often accompanies infection.
Pain That’s Worsening
Pain that increases rather than improves over a few days needs evaluation.
Diabetic or Circulation Issues
If you’re diabetic, see a podiatrist immediately — never attempt home treatment.
Recurring Ingrown Nails
If this keeps happening on the same toe, a permanent procedure may be the right solution.
What to Expect at Your Visit
A quick, well-tolerated in-office procedure — most take under 20 minutes.
- Numb the Toe
A local anesthetic is applied — you’ll feel a brief pinch, then no pain for the rest of the procedure.
- Remove the Problem Edge
The ingrown portion of the nail is carefully removed. For recurring cases, Dr. Vohra can treat the nail root to prevent regrowth in that area permanently.
- Walk Out Same Day
Most patients leave in regular shoes with immediate pain relief and simple at-home care instructions.
★★★★★ “I put off dealing with my ingrown toenail for months out of fear. The procedure took 15 minutes and I felt instant relief. I wish I’d come in sooner.” — Tom L., Plainfield, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The area is fully numbed with local anesthetic before the procedure begins. Most patients report significant relief immediately afterward — often less pain than they had walking in.
A simple removal can allow the nail to grow back the same way. For recurring cases, Dr. Vohra offers a procedure that treats the nail root (matrixectomy) to permanently prevent regrowth.
Yes, in most cases. It’s considered a medical procedure and typically covered, especially with infection or significant pain present. We verify your benefits before your visit.
Yes — we prioritize same-day appointments for acute, painful ingrown toenails whenever possible. Call 815-254-3338 to check same-day availability.
Don’t Wait in Pain
Ingrown toenails rarely improve on their own once infected. Same-day appointments available
at all two locations.