Ingrown Toenail
Ingrown Toenail
Table of Contents
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the skin, instead of over it. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, redness, swelling, and even infection.
Ingrown toenails can interfere with daily activities like walking or wearing shoes — but they’re highly treatable, especially when addressed early.
What causes ingrown toenails?
Several factors can lead to an ingrown toenail, including:
Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or curved)
Tight footwear or high heels that crowd the toes
Injury or repeated trauma to the toe
Genetics — some people naturally have curved or thick nails
Poor foot hygiene
Excessive sweating (which softens the skin around the nail)
People with diabetes or circulation issues are especially vulnerable to complications from untreated ingrown nails.
What are the symptoms?
An ingrown toenail typically starts with mild irritation and may progress to more serious symptoms, such as:
Pain or tenderness along one or both sides of the nail
Redness and swelling near the affected nail
Skin growing over the nail edge
Drainage of pus or fluid, especially if infected
Throbbing pain or warmth in the toe
Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably
Infected ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications, particularly in diabetic or immunocompromised patients.
How is an ingrown toenail diagnosed?
At Toetal Podiatry, diagnosis is done visually and clinically. In most cases, the appearance of the toe is enough to confirm an ingrown toenail.
If there’s severe pain or signs of infection, your podiatrist may also evaluate:
Signs of bacterial infection
Extent of inflammation
Bone involvement in recurring or chronic cases (via X-ray)
Can ingrown toenails be prevented?
Yes! You can reduce your risk with these simple steps:
Trim nails straight across — not rounded
Avoid cutting nails too short
Wear comfortable, roomy shoes
Keep feet clean and dry
Avoid trauma or repeated pressure on the toenails
Get regular foot checkups if you have diabetes or circulation problems
FAQs about Ingrown Toenails
Q: Can I treat an ingrown toenail at home?
A: Mild cases may respond to home care, but if there’s pain, swelling, or pus, you should see a podiatrist.
Q: Is the removal procedure painful?
A: No. The area is numbed with local anesthesia, and most patients feel little to no discomfort during or after the procedure.
Q: How long is the recovery?
A: Most patients resume normal activities within a day or two. Full healing can take a few weeks, depending on the treatment.
Q: Will it grow back?
A: If only a portion of the nail is removed, it may grow back. Matrixectomy prevents that portion from returning.
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