Ingrown Toenail Treatment 101: What Every Patient Needs to Know

Wiki Article

An ingrown toenail might seem like a small problem, but if you’ve had one, you know how painful it can be. It happens when the edge of your toenail grows into the skin beside it, causing redness, swelling, and discomfort. In some cases, it can even lead to infection.

Let’s break down what causes ingrown toenails, how to treat them, and what you can do to prevent them in the future.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails are most common on the big toe, and there are a few reasons why they happen:

• Wearing tight shoes that squeeze your toes together

  
  

• Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the edges too much

  
  

• Injuries to the toenail, like stubbing your toe

  
  

• Genetics – sometimes, toenails naturally grow curved or thick

  
  

• Poor foot hygiene or not trimming nails regularly

Common Symptoms

If you have an ingrown toenail, you might notice:

• Pain or tenderness on the side of the nail

  
  

• Redness and swelling

  
  

• Warmth around the toe

  
  

• Pus or drainage if it’s infected

  
  

If the pain keeps getting worse or you notice signs of infection, it’s time to see a doctor or podiatrist.

Home Treatment Options

If your ingrown toenail is mild (not infected), you can try these simple home treatments:

1. Soak your foot in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day

2. Gently lift the edge of the nail and place a small piece of cotton or dental floss underneath to help it grow above the skin

3. Wear open-toed or loose shoes to reduce pressure

4. Apply antibiotic cream and keep the toe clean and dry

Never try to dig into the nail or cut it out yourself this can make things worse.

When to See a Podiatrist

If home care doesn’t help after a few days, or if you have signs of infection (like pus or severe pain), visit a podiatrist. They can:

• Safely remove part of the nail if needed

• Treat the infection with antibiotics

• Offer a minor procedure to remove the part of the nail that keeps causing the problem

• Give advice on preventing it from coming back

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

The good news is that most ingrown toenails can be prevented with a few simple steps:

• Trim your toenails straight across, not rounded

• Don’t cut nails too short

• Wear shoes that fit well and give your toes space

• Keep your feet clean and dry

• Protect your toes from injury, especially during sports or heavy work

Final Thoughts

Ingrown toenails are common, but they don’t have to be a recurring problem. With proper care, smart foot habits, and quick treatment when needed, you can stay pain-free and on your feet.

Report this wiki page