Alex Ram

Nail surgery can sound a bit alarming, as it's not something we come across unless someone we know tells us about the experience. Whilst it's usual to hear of visits to podiatrists or chiropodists, nail surgery is much less well known.In fact you may never think about nail surgery until you're in some pain and realise that you need some urgent help!You can rest assured that competent, reassuring and prompt help should be available at a clinic not too far from home. It's helpful to have some facts about the whole process so that you'll know what might be necessary.Nail surgery is usually performed where there's pain and/or infection in the flesh of the toe around the nail. This can be caused by various problems. Antibiotics may destroy the infection and reduce painful swelling, but there's risk of a return as the basic conditions remain. Surgery will cure these conditions and thus prevent the return of the problem.The underlying cause may be something that's happened to the toe - for instance bad nail cutting or something heavy being dropped on it. Alternatively it may be a nail that grows with deep sides or is very curved.Nail surgery will be applied as appropriate for your particular case. For instance, where the nail has been damaged it is possible to remove the sides of the nail (partial nail avulsion) or the complete nail (total nail avulsion) but to leave the nail bed intact. This will allow the nail to grow back naturally and without future problems.If there are minor abnormalities in the nail which are causing the pain, then again partial nail avulsion may be the cure, but the nail bed will also need surgery. For instance, a too wide nail will need the removal of that part of the nail bed to prevent it growing back in the same way. Practitioners will take care to make sure that the nail looks good too.Knowing the use of nail surgery and its application in your situation will help you to appreciate the way clinics practise it.Nail problems can be very painful and it will be necessary to anesthetise the toe in order for surgery to be carried out. The anaesthetic injections may be a little painful, but the discomfort passes quickly and you'll soon be ready for the surgery. The two injections are usually at the base of the toe away from the painful part.The surgery usually takes about fifteen minutes to complete and then you'll be allowed to go home with instructions to care for the dressing, to rest with your foot raised for few hours and to take painkillers if you experience discomfort. Any pain will be controlled by paracetemol or ibuprofen (aspirin should not be taken as it can encourage bleeding). Make sure that your footwear, including socks, is loose fitting and doesn't put any pressure on your toes. You'll have to return for dressing changes and for your healing to be monitored.So, nail surgery really can be quite simple and a very welcome solution to a painful condition. However, you must take care to ensure you visit a well qualified and experienced practitioner. Ask the opinions of friends, family or medical staff. Check out the qualifications of clinic staff (three year degree level courses are best for the actual practitioner) and the quality of information and reception that they offer.Of course your welcome at the Clinic and the possibility of making a quick appointment will also influence your decision.A good Clinic will reassure you and help you appreciate the wonderful relief that nail surgery will bring.Nail avulsion or partial nail avulsion need not be as daunting as it sounds. A registered Podiatrist will be able to explain every details of the procedure and the after care required. To find out more visit Wigan Chiropody, one of the leading Podiatrists in Wigan.