Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of straight forwards. This commonly affects the big toe and can cause pain, redness, swelling and infection. Ingrown toenails can affect people of all ages and often become progressively worse if left untreated.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

There are several common causes of ingrown toenails including:

  • Cutting toenails too short

  • Curving the corners of the nail when cutting

  • Tight footwear placing pressure on the toes

  • Trauma or injury to the nail

  • Naturally curved nails

  • Thickened fungal nails

  • Sweaty feet

  • Poor foot biomechanics or toe deformities

Some people are simply more prone to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape of their nails.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

  • Pain or tenderness at the side of the nail

  • Redness and swelling

  • Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably

  • Warmth around the toe

  • Infection or pus

  • Bleeding

  • Overgrowth of skin around the nail edge

If infection develops, the toe can become extremely painful and swollen.

Home Advice

Mild ingrown toenails may improve with simple measures such as:

  • Soaking the foot in warm salty water

  • Keeping the toe clean and dry

  • Avoiding tight fitting shoes

  • Cutting nails straight across

  • Avoiding digging down the nail corners

However, attempting to cut out the nail yourself can often make the problem worse.

When Should You Seek Professional Treatment?

You should seek podiatry treatment if:

  • The toe is painful or infected

  • Symptoms keep returning

  • You are struggling to walk comfortably

  • There is swelling, pus or bleeding

  • You have diabetes or poor circulation

People with diabetes should never ignore an ingrown toenail as infection can spread quickly and become serious.

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

At The Chiropodist we can safely treat ingrown toenails and relieve discomfort.

Treatment may include:

  • Removing the offending nail spike

  • Reducing thickened nails

  • Treating infection

  • Advice on nail cutting and footwear

  • Nail surgery for recurring problems

Nail Surgery

For persistent or severely painful ingrown toenails, a minor procedure called partial nail avulsion may be recommended. This involves removing the problematic section of nail under local anaesthetic. A chemical is often applied to help prevent the nail edge growing back.

The procedure is quick, effective and has a high success rate.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

You can help reduce the risk of recurrence by:

  • Cutting nails straight across

  • Avoiding very short nails

  • Wearing properly fitting footwear

  • Keeping feet clean and dry

  • Seeking treatment early if discomfort develops

Need Advice or Treatment?

If you are suffering with a painful ingrown toenail, early treatment can often prevent infection and further complications.

Contact The Chiropodist to arrange an appointment or for further advice.