Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown Toenails – Causes, Symptoms & How We Can Help

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, rather than straight over it. This commonly affects the big toe and can become extremely painful if not treated early. Many people experience redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes infection around the affected nail.

At The Chiropodist, we see ingrown toenails regularly, and with the right treatment, they can be resolved quickly and comfortably.

Common Causes

Ingrown toenails can develop for various reasons, including:

• Improper nail cutting – Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges too much.

• Tight footwear – Shoes that squeeze the toes push the nail into the surrounding skin.

• Toe trauma – Stubbing your toe or repetitive pressure from sports or work boots.

• Natural nail shape – Some people naturally have curved or involuted nails.

• Underlying conditions – Diabetes or poor circulation can increase the risk of complications.

Symptoms to Look Out For

You may have an ingrown toenail if you experience:

• Pain when walking or wearing shoes

• Redness or warmth around the nail

• Swelling on one or both sides of the nail

• A feeling that the nail is “digging in”

• Signs of infection (pus, throbbing pain, increased redness)

Early treatment is always best and often prevents the issue from becoming more serious.

How We Treat Ingrown Toenails at The Chiropodist

1. Professional Assessment

We begin by examining the toe, assessing the severity of the ingrowth, and checking for infection or complications.

2. Conservative Treatment

For mild cases, we can gently remove the offending nail edge, cleanse the area, apply an appropriate dressing, and give advice on reducing discomfort and preventing recurrence.

3. Minor Nail Surgery (If Needed)

For more persistent or recurring ingrown toenails, we offer a quick and effective minor surgical procedure under local anaesthetic.
This involves:

• Removing the problematic section of nail

• Treating the nail root (if appropriate) to stop it growing back

• Applying a sterile dressing and giving you full after-care instructions

This procedure is highly successful and provides long-term relief.

4. After-Care & Follow-Up

We ensure you leave with clear advice on dressing changes, what to expect during healing, and when to return for review. Good after-care helps ensure the best possible result.

What You Can Do to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

• Cut your toenails straight across, not into the corners

• Avoid cutting them too short

• Wear shoes with enough room for your toes

• Keep your feet clean and dry

• Avoid picking or pulling at the nail edges

• Seek help early if you notice discomfort

If you have diabetes or reduced feeling in your feet, regular foot checks are especially important.

When Should You Seek Help?

Contact us promptly if:

• The pain is worsening

• You see pus or signs of infection

• You struggle to walk comfortably

• Home remedies aren’t improving the issue

• You have diabetes or circulation problems

The earlier the treatment, the quicker the relief.

Let Us Help You Get Back on Your Feet

At The Chiropodist, we specialise in safe, gentle and effective treatment of ingrown toenails. Whether it’s a first-time issue or something that keeps coming back, we’re here to help you get back to pain-free living.

Book your appointment by calling us on 01922 649779 or 0121 580 8110 or see our website
www.thechiropodist.com