Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, creating a wound. If the embedded nail is not removed or treated promptly, it may lead to an infection. While antiseptics or antibiotics can help manage the infection, they do not address the underlying cause—the ingrown nail itself.

Causes and Risk Factors of Ingrown Toenails

Incorrect Nail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges instead of leaving them straight can lead to nail penetration into the skin.
Ill-fitting Footwear: Shoes that apply excessive pressure to the toes may push the nail into the surrounding skin.
Trauma or Injury: Injuries such as stubbing a toe or repeated pressure can disrupt normal nail growth.
Genetic Factors: Inherited traits like curved nails or naturally wide nail plates can predispose individuals to ingrown toenails.
Nail Picking: Picking or tearing at nails can cause irregular edges that are more likely to grow into the skin.
Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating softens the skin, increasing its susceptibility to nail penetration.
Fungal Nail Infections: Thickened, brittle, or distorted nails caused by fungal infections can press into the surrounding skin, increasing the risk of an ingrown toenail.
Structural Deformities: The deviation of the toe joints can push the toenail into the surrounding skin.

Have questions? We are here to help!

Signs and Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Pain: Discomfort along the nail border, especially when pressure is applied or while wearing shoes.
Redness and Swelling: Inflammation around the affected nail.
Tenderness: The skin around the ingrown nail may become sensitive to touch.
Bleeding: The area where the nail penetrates the skin may bleed.
Infection: In severe cases, there may be pus, increased redness, and warmth, indicating an infection.
Overgrowth of Skin: A granuloma may develop.

Treatment and Management of Ingrown Toenails

Treatment options for ingrown toenails vary depending on their duration, cause, and severity.

In mild cases, temporary relief may be achieved through measures such as nail trimming or the application of antiseptics and oral antibiotics. Nail bracing is another option; it elevates the nail edge off the skin and helps straighten the nail as it grows.

For recurrent cases or if conservative measures are ineffective, a partial nail avulsion with matrixectomy is typically the preferred method. This minimally invasive procedure prevents regrowth and offers a permanent solution. It is relatively painless and performed under local anesthesia.

Ready to see us? Book your visit!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I have an ingrown toenail?

If you think you have an ingrown toenail, refrain from trying to remove the ingrown section on your own. Instead, keep the area clean and apply antiseptic for protection. Consult a podiatrist if you notice redness, swelling, or signs of pus.

Can I cut my ingrown toenail?

It is generally not recommended to cut an ingrown toenail yourself, as this can leave behind small nail spikes that may worsen the condition. Repeated improper cutting may cause the nail to become more curved over time, increasing the risk of recurrence. If you frequently experience ingrown toenails, it is best to consult a podiatrist for professional treatment and long-term solutions.

Can ingrown toenails be prevented?

Yes, preventative measures include trimming toenails straight across without cutting them too short and wearing properly fitting shoes that do not compress the toes.

Can ingrown toenail come back after treatment?

While basic treatments may not prevent recurrence, a partial nail avulsion with matrixectomy offers a permanent solution by preventing regrowth of the problematic portion of the nail.

Are there non-surgical options for treating ingrown toenails?

Yes, nail bracing is a non-invasive option that lifts the nail edge to prevent it from digging into the skin, helping to guide the nail as it grows. However, it is most effective for minor cases.