Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful foot condition that can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. Many people in Alberta wonder whether a health practitioner can help — and whether surgery is the only option.
The good news is: yes, a health practitioner can treat ingrown toenails in Alberta, and in many cases, surgery is not required.
In Alberta, Foot Care Nurses are trained healthcare professionals who are qualified to assess and manage ingrown toenails using non-surgical, conservative treatment methods.
While Foot Care Nurses do not perform surgical nail removal, many ingrown toenails can be effectively treated without surgery, especially when addressed early. Conservative management is often the preferred first approach.
When you see a Foot Care Nurse for an ingrown toenail, treatment typically begins with a thorough clinical assessment, which includes:
Based on this assessment, non-surgical care may include:
This approach is safe, precise, and focused on long-term nail health.
For suitable cases, Foot Care Nurses may recommend the Onyfix® Nail Correction System as part of treatment.
Onyfix® is a non-invasive nail correction system designed to gently guide the nail into a healthier growth position over time.
Onyfix® works by reducing the inward pressure of the nail, allowing it to grow forward rather than into the surrounding skin. It is particularly helpful for individuals who want to avoid surgical procedures.
Non-surgical ingrown toenail care is often appropriate for:
Early assessment is key — the sooner an ingrown toenail is addressed, the more effective non-surgical options tend to be.
In some cases, ingrown toenails may be severe, recurrent, or associated with complications that require surgical management. In these situations, a Foot Care Nurse will recommend referral to a physician or podiatrist.
Foot Care Nurses play an important role in:
Attempting to treat an ingrown toenail at home — by digging into the nail or cutting deeply — can increase pain and complications. Professional care ensures:
This is especially important for people with diabetes, circulation issues, or reduced sensation in their feet.
If you are experiencing pain, redness, or discomfort from an ingrown toenail, a professional assessment can help determine whether non-surgical treatment, including Onyfix®, is right for you.
📞 Call today to book an ingrown toenail assessment with a Foot Care Nurse in Alberta.
