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Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Anaheim and Lakewood, CA

An ingrown toenail is also known as onychocryptosis. It is a common condition in which the nail plate grows into the surrounding periungual skin. The condition causes inflammation and, in many cases, infection. It usually affects the hallux (big toe) and can occur at any age. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can cause pain, discomfort, and even disability. Visit Care Podiatry in Anaheim or Lakewood, CA, to get the evaluation done as early as possible.

Why Do Ingrown Toenails Happen?

Ingrown toenails can be caused by various factors. One of the most common causes is wearing footwear that is too tight and doesn’t fit properly. Tight footwear can cause discomfort to the toenails. Sometimes, if your shoes, socks, or stockings are too small, these can compress the toes.

In most cases, if you have naturally large toenails or they are naturally curved and thick, you are more likely to get ingrown toenails. Toenails become thick due to aging, fungal nail infections, poor circulation, or nail psoriasis. Even a minor injury, such as having your toe stepped on or dropping something heavy on your foot, can lead to ingrown toenails.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Start with general care.

Soak your foot in warm, soapy water or water with Epsom salts for 10-20 min to reduce swelling. Keep your toes clean and dry after soaking and avoid squeezing, as it will only make the condition worse.

After soaking, place a small cotton under the ingrown edge to gently lift it away from the skin. Use special splints or medical tape to pull the nail away from the soft tissue. In some cases, you can use professional devices like small braces or wires to straighten the nails as they grow.

Medical Treatment Options From Our Podiatrist

If home care is not helping, our podiatrist usually helps with nail lifting, partial nail removal, or partial or full matricectomy and other common foot problems.

What to Expect During Our Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Examination?

Symptom

Increasing redness and swelling

Pus or foul drainage

Fever or spreading redness

Diabetes or circulation problems

What We Check For

Schedule evaluation

Medical treatment recommended

Seek urgent care

Early professional care is strongly advised

How Long Does It Take To Heal From an Ingrown Toenail

One of the most common questions patients ask is “How long will it take to heal?” The answer depends on how severe the ingrown toenail is and what type of treatment is provided.

Mild Cases

If your ingrown toenail is caught early, meaning there is redness and tenderness, but no infection, the healing can happen quickly. Usually, with warm water soaks, proper nail trimming, and less pressure from tight shoes, you start noticing improvement within a few days. Sometimes, the symptoms typically resolve within one week. However, it works if there is no infection.

After Partial Nail Removal

You experience pain when a healthcare provider removes the ingrown portion of the nail. It is known as a minor in-office procedure. You can expect healing when you notice –

After Matricectomy

If the ingrown toenail is severe or returns, part of the nail matrix is treated to prevent that section from regrowing. It is known as matricectomy. The procedure can alter the nail growth, so drainage can last 1-2 weeks. There is a possibility that the toe becomes sensitive for several weeks. In fact, complete healing takes about 3-6 weeks. Come pay us a visit in Anaheim and Lakewood locations in California.

What Our Patients Say

    
 
 
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   Michael Perez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Maijala and his staff are unparalleled in customer service and carry themselves in a very professional manner.. these 2 traits are the foundation of a 5 ⭐️ healthcare provider…  I feel fortunate too be a patient…
  
 
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   Mari Mar 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best podiatrist ever! Brought my 14 year old because she had an ingrown toe nail. He explained everything so well and the procedure was smooth.  She recovered very well. Dr Maijala is awesome and staff is wonderful!!
  
 
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   francisco cervantes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. God Jop I’m. Happy
  
 
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   Irma Cervantes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Me gusta mucho
  
 
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   Dave LittleBear 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The doctor was very nice I really enjoyed him working on my feet these are very nice person very professional very friendly thank you
  
 
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   Ivan Ojeda 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best doctor ever. Honest and makes sure you get the best treatment. Staff is super friendly and makes you feel comfortable.
  
 
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   chinh nguyen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I think it is great shoe
  
 
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   paols eol 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I took my daughter here for a sports related injury. The guys at the urgent care did not do a thorough exam they just listened to the symptoms and said she had shin splints. DR Maijala on the other hand really took his time to figure out what was wrong. He has a great foot-side manner. I would highly recommend him.
  
 
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   Alvaro Contreras 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 10 out of 10 podiatry
  
 
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   Manny Diaz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been under the care of Dr. Maijala since January 2025, and I cannot express how grateful I am for his exceptional care. When I developed cellulitis, it escalated to the point where I needed to be hospitalized and operated on. Dr. Maijala acted quickly and decisively, skillfully cleaning out the infection and ensuring my recovery. What truly sets Dr. Maijala apart is his remarkable combination of expertise and compassion. He is not only incredibly knowledgeable and skilled but also genuinely caring and attentive. He takes the time to listen to his patients, addressing all concerns with patience and understanding. His approach makes patients feel valued and respected, which is a rare quality in healthcare today. I wish all doctors were as dedicated and compassionate as Dr. Maijala. His commitment to his patients is truly inspiring, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone in need of exceptional medical care. ---

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can an Ingrown Toenail Heal On Its Own?

Yes. Mild cases can improve with proper home care, such as soaking and wearing roomy shoes. However, if pain worsens, it is a sign of infection.

How Do I Know If My Ingrown Toenail is Infected?

Signs of infection can include increasing redness or warmth, pus or drainage, swelling, and unbearable pain.

Can An Ingrown Toenail Come Back?

Yes, recurrence is possible if nails are cut too short or rounded, you wear tight shoes, and there is a naturally curved nail shape. Permanent procedures can reduce the risk, but proper nail trimming and footwear options remain essential for prevention.

Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Anaheim and Lakewood, CA

Why Do Ingrown Toenails Happen?

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Start with general care.

Medical Treatment Options From Our Podiatrist

What to Expect During Our Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Examination?

Symptom

What We Check For

How Long Does It Take To Heal From an Ingrown Toenail

Mild Cases

After Partial Nail Removal

After Matricectomy

Other Common Foot Problems We Treat

Acquired Flat Foot

Bunions

Foot Arthritis

Foot Numbness

Foot Pain

Hammertoe Treatment

Heel Spur Syndrome

Ingrown Toenail

Plantar Fasciitis

Tarsal Tunnel

Toenail Trimming and Care

What Our Patients Say

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Frequently Asked Questions