Nail Disorder Treament in Ankeny, Des Moines, Grimes, Fort Dodge and Sac City
Even without infection, an ingrown nail can be very painful. If left untreated, it can break through the skin and provide an easy entry point for bacteria, leading to infection. Common symptoms include pain, redness, drainage, and swelling around the nail.
If you're experiencing signs of an ingrown toenail, don't wait. Our experienced providers in Ankeny, Des Moines, Grimes, Fort Dodge, and Sac City offer prompt, in-office treatments designed to relieve pain and prevent recurrence—so you can get back on your feet with confidence.
When you visit one of our specialists at the Foot & Ankle Center of Iowa, your appointment will begin with a thorough consultation. During this visit, your doctor will carefully examine your foot and evaluate the ingrown toenail to determine the severity of the condition. In some cases, an X-ray may be recommended to assess the depth of the nail or check for signs of infection in the surrounding bone.
Once the evaluation is complete, your provider will discuss your personalized treatment options. Depending on the case, this may include:
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Conservative care such as topical or oral antibiotics
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A simple in-office procedure to remove part or all of the ingrown portion of the nail
If a procedure is needed, we’ll take time to explain the process, answer your questions, and review what you can expect during recovery.
The good news? Most patients can return to normal activities as soon as the day after the procedure—often without any restrictions. Our goal is to resolve your pain quickly and comfortably, so you can get back to doing the things you love.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are a painful but very common condition treated at all of our Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa clinic locations, including Ankeny, Des Moines, Grimes, Fort Dodge, and Sac City. This condition occurs when the edge of the toenail grows downward into the surrounding skin—usually along one or both sides of the big toe—leading to discomfort that can interfere with walking, standing, or wearing shoes.
There are many causes of ingrown toenails, including:
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Toenail fungus
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Hereditary nail shape
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Foot structure deformities
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Improper trimming
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Trauma or repetitive pressure to the toe
Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus—medically known as onychomycosis—is a common, persistent condition that can affect both the appearance and health of your toenails. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa, we provide expert care for fungal nails at our locations in Ankeny, Des Moines, Grimes, Fort Dodge, and Sac City.
Fungal infections can cause the nails to become yellow or white in color, thickened or brittle, painful, tender, or loose, and surrounded by buildup under the nail (subungual debris). These changes are not only uncomfortable but also often a source of embarrassment. Fortunately, our team offers advanced, personalized treatment options to restore both comfort and confidence.
Sometimes, however, other conditions can cause the nails to appear fungal when they are not. For this reason, confirming the diagnosis is a critical first step in creating an effective treatment plan. If there is uncertainty, we may take a small nail clipping to send to the specialized pathology lab we partner with. This ensures that your diagnosis is accurate and that you receive the most appropriate care. If it is determined that your nail changes are not caused by fungus, our providers will review additional treatment options designed to support and improve nail health.
During your visit to one of our Iowa clinics, your provider will evaluate the condition of your nails and recommend the best course of treatment based on the diagnosis, severity, goals, and insurance considerations. Options may include: nail debridement (trimming and thinning of the fungal nail), prescription topical antifungal medications and foot soaks, oral antifungal therapy, laser nail therapy, EB-L1 nutritional support supplement—a medical-grade oral supplement that promotes nail health and immune function from within—and temporary or permanent nail removal in resistant or severe cases.
At Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa, we combine the best of topical, oral, and nutritional therapies to create a well-rounded, results-focused treatment plan. Our inclusion of EB-L1 supports internal immune health, enhancing the body’s ability to fight fungal infections and promote healthier nail growth.
Early treatment leads to better results. Whether you're in Ankeny, Des Moines, Grimes, Fort Dodge, or Sac City, our team is ready to help you take the first step toward clearer, healthier nails. Schedule your consultation at the Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa today—and take one confident step closer to relief.