An ingrown toenail may sound like a minor nuisance, but anyone who has experienced one knows just how painful it can be. What begins as mild discomfort along the edge of the toenail can quickly escalate into swelling, infection, and difficulty walking.
While some cases can be managed at home, others require professional care to prevent complications and ensure proper healing. In this article, our friends at Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center explain what causes ingrown toenails, when home remedies are safe, and when it’s time to see a doctor of podiatry for treatment.
What Is An Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This usually affects the big toe but can occur in any toe.
The condition can be painful and, if left untreated, may lead to infection or recurring issues that interfere with daily activities.
Common Causes Of Ingrown Toenails
Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including:
- Improper nail trimming – Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow into the skin.
- Tight footwear – Shoes or socks that crowd the toes can push the nail into the skin.
- Injury – Stubbing your toe or other trauma can alter nail growth.
- Genetics – Some people inherit naturally curved toenails.
- Poor foot hygiene – Excess moisture softens the skin around nails, making it easier for them to grow inward.
Symptoms You Might Notice
Early signs may be easy to overlook, but symptoms tend to worsen quickly:
- Tenderness or pain along the side of the nail.
- Redness and swelling around the nail bed.
- Hardening of the skin or buildup of tissue along the nail edge.
- Pus or drainage, signaling infection.
- Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably.
At-Home Care Options
For mild cases without signs of infection, at-home remedies may provide relief:
- Warm foot soaks – Soak the affected foot in warm, soapy water 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times daily, to reduce swelling and soften skin.
- Cotton or dental floss – Gently place under the edge of the nail to lift it away from the skin.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers – Such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Open-toe or roomy shoes – Reduce pressure on the toe during healing.
These methods may help in the short term, but they aren’t always effective at preventing recurrence.
When At-Home Care Isn’t Enough
You should see a doctor if:
- The ingrown toenail keeps coming back.
- Pain is severe or limits your daily activities.
- There are signs of infection (pus, spreading redness, or warmth).
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a condition that increases infection risk.
Delaying treatment in these cases can lead to complications, including deeper infections that may spread to the bone.
Professional Treatment Options
Podiatrists offer safe, effective treatments tailored to the severity of the ingrown toenail:
- Lifting the nail – For mild cases, the nail edge may be lifted and cushioned to promote proper growth.
- Partial nail removal – For more advanced cases, the ingrown portion of the nail is trimmed or removed under local anesthesia.
- Nail bed treatment (matrixectomy) – In recurring cases, part of the nail bed may be treated with a chemical or laser to prevent regrowth in the problem area.
- Antibiotics – Prescribed if an infection is present.
These procedures provide relief quickly, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days.
Why Professional Care Matters
While home remedies may help temporarily, professional treatment ensures the root cause is addressed. A doctor not only resolves the current issue but also provides guidance on preventing future ingrown nails through proper trimming techniques, footwear recommendations, and ongoing foot care.
Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of ingrown toenails:
- Cut nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges.
- Avoid trimming nails too short.
- Wear shoes with enough toe room.
- Keep feet clean and dry to prevent infection.
- Check your feet regularly if you have diabetes or circulation problems.
A few simple habits can prevent painful recurrences and keep your toes healthy.
Don’t Suffer Through The Pain
An ingrown toenail may seem like a small problem, but the pain and complications can be significant if left untreated. Knowing when at-home care is safe and when to seek professional help is key to keeping your feet healthy and pain-free.
If you’ve been struggling with recurring ingrown toenails or suspect an infection, don’t wait for it to get worse. A podiatrist can resolve the issue quickly and provide lasting relief.