A small nail problem can turn into a big source of pain. Ingrown toenails are one of the most frequent reasons people end up in a podiatry office. They happen when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. While it may sound like a minor issue, anyone who’s dealt with one knows how disruptive it can be — especially if you’re on your feet all day, an athlete, or living with medical conditions like diabetes. The good news is that ingrown toenails are highly treatable, and in many cases preventable.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Several factors can trigger an ingrown nail:
- Improper trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
- Footwear: Shoes that are too tight, especially around the toes, press the nail into the surrounding tissue.
- Genetics: Some people simply inherit curved or fan-shaped nails that are prone to becoming ingrown.
- Trauma: Repeated stubbing of the toe or dropping heavy objects on it.
- Sweating & hygiene: Excess moisture softens the nail and skin, making penetration easier.
Symptoms and Progression
Early symptoms often include:
- Tenderness and pain along one or both sides of the toenail.
- Redness and swelling.
- Difficulty wearing shoes without discomfort.
If untreated, things escalate quickly: infection sets in, producing drainage, pus, and throbbing pain. Severe infections can even limit walking or running.
Common Myths About Ingrown Nails
- “They’ll go away on their own.” Not usually. Untreated ingrown nails often worsen.
- “Just dig the nail out at home.” Dangerous. Self-surgery often leads to infection and repeat problems.
- “Only teenagers get them.” False. Ingrown nails affect all ages, though active teens are especially prone.
Home Care for Mild Cases
For very early ingrown nails without infection:
- Soak your foot in warm water 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily.
- Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment.
- Wear open-toe or wide shoes.
- Place cotton or dental floss under the nail corner to gently lift it (if tolerable).
⚠️ If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or neuropathy, do not attempt home treatment. Seek immediate professional care.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a podiatrist if:
- Pain worsens despite home care.
- You notice pus, spreading redness, or fever.
- Ingrown nails are recurring.
- You have underlying conditions that impair healing.
Professional Treatments
- Partial nail removal: The ingrown edge is trimmed away under local anesthesia.
- Matrixectomy: For recurrent cases, the nail root is treated with a chemical or laser to prevent regrowth of the ingrown portion.
- Infection management: Oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed.
- Footwear & gait assessment: Addressing the root cause helps prevent recurrence.
These are outpatient procedures, often done in under 30 minutes, with minimal downtime.
Prevention Tips
- Trim nails straight across, leaving them slightly longer at the edges.
- Wear shoes with adequate toe room.
- Keep feet clean and dry.
- Change socks regularly if prone to sweating.
- See a podiatrist for routine care if you’re high-risk (e.g., diabetic).
Conclusion
Ingrown toenails may start small, but they can cause outsized pain and complications if ignored. From simple conservative care to quick in-office procedures, relief is available. If ingrown nails are interfering with your life, don’t wait for them to worsen — Dr. Kamel can provide safe, lasting solutions and get you back on your feet pain-free.