What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail presses into or grows into the surrounding skin. It most commonly affects the big toe, although other toes can also be involved. Symptoms can include pain, tenderness, redness and swelling around the nail edge. If the skin becomes broken, infection may also develop. Ingrown toenails can range from mild irritation to a recurring or painful problem that makes shoes, walking or sport uncomfortable. Early assessment can often help manage the problem before it becomes more severe.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons. Common contributing factors include cutting the nail too short or rounding the corners, pressure from tight or narrow footwear, repeated trauma to the toe, and the natural shape or curvature of the nail.
Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails because of the way the nail grows or the shape of the surrounding skin. Sweating, swelling and certain activities can also increase irritation around the nail edge.
In some cases, there is no single obvious cause. Assessment helps determine what is contributing to the problem and whether simple treatment, ongoing nail care or a minor nail procedure may be appropriate.
How is an Ingrown Toenail Treated?
Treatment depends on how painful or inflamed the toe is, whether infection is present, and whether the problem keeps returning.
For milder cases, treatment may include carefully clearing the painful nail edge, reducing pressure around the toe, advice on nail cutting and footwear, and monitoring the area while it settles.
If the ingrown toenail is recurrent, very painful, or does not improve with conservative care, a minor nail procedure may be considered. In many cases, only the troublesome side of the nail needs to be treated rather than removing the whole nail.
Your podiatrist will assess the toe and discuss the most appropriate option based on the nail, surrounding skin, circulation and relevant medical history.
Learn more about Ingrown Toenail Surgery
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
Consider booking an assessment if the toe is painful, swollen, repeatedly becoming inflamed, or if the ingrown nail keeps returning. Assessment is also important if there is discharge, increasing redness, worsening pain, or if you have diabetes, poor circulation or another condition that may affect healing.
A podiatry assessment can help determine whether conservative treatment is appropriate or whether a minor nail procedure should be considered.
