Ever have an ingrown toenail operated on? [View all]

[Akoto]

I did yesterday. You'd think I would have no fear of pain after twelve years of being disabled with chronic pain, yet I was! This was my first real surgery and I, at twenty-nine, had to have my mother in the room to help me through my relaxation exercises.

The left side of my right big toe was ingrown and had become infected. These infections were repeated, and it just didn't want to let go this time, so I bit the bullet and went to the podiatrist. So terrified, as I'd mentioned, but my mom was a great help. The podiatrist was also superb. I never felt a thing, not even the shots. This is a lesson that you should not visit Doctor Google ahead of such things; it wasn't like what I'd read.

So, about a quarter of my toenail on one side is gone. I am pretty well immobile (not that I wasn't already with my disability) because I need to keep activity low. Epsom salt foot soak twice a day, no getting it wet in the bathtub - the hardest part since soaks help my usual chronic pain - and wrapping. The gauze wrapping is very elaborate, like something evil sealed away, never to be unleashed upon mankind.

Naturally, I couldn't even watch the procedure, but I will credit the podiatrist again for being so considerate as to my pain levels. However, my mother was kind enough to watch and tell me the details later. She says those instruments must've been sharp, because they cut my nail like a knife through paper. Wuuugh.

Anyway. The maintenance is a pain, and I worry a bit because it still looks rather angry and red. However, it was infected to begin with, and this is only day two after the fact (at least by EST time). Gotta give time for things to relax and the antibiotics I'm on to do their thing.

I welcome contributions to my can't-move-so-can-use-gaming-funds bin. They're the only thing keeping me sane now that I can't even hobble around the house easily!

My first surgery, minor though it was, all told. May it be the last.