Everything You Need to Know About Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are one of the most common and painful foot problems we treat at our clinic. Whether you're a runner, on your feet all day at work, or simply someone who enjoys open-toed shoes in the summer, an ingrown toenail can quickly go from something minor to a serious health issue.

Let’s take a closer look at what causes ingrown toenails, how you can treat them, and when to seek professional help.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. The big toe is most commonly affected, but it can happen to any toenail.

Common Causes

Many factors can contribute to ingrown toenails, including:

• Improper nail trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges increases the risk.
  
  

• Tight footwear: Shoes that crowd the toes can force the nail into the skin.
  
  

• Injury: Trauma from stubbing your toe or repetitive pressure (like kicking a ball) can cause nail problems.
  
  

• Genetics: Some people naturally have more curved nails that are more prone to becoming ingrown.
  
  

• Poor foot hygiene: Not keeping your feet clean and dry can make you more susceptible.
  

Symptoms to Watch For

The early signs of an ingrown toenail include:

• Tenderness or pain along the nail edge
  
  

• Redness and swelling around the toenail
  
  

• Warmth in the toe
  
  

• Drainage or pus (a sign of infection)
  

If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to seek medical attention.

Home Treatment Tips

In the very early stages, you might be able to treat a mild ingrown toenail at home:

• Soak your foot in warm water with salt for 5 minutes, once or twice a day.
  
  

• Keep the foot clean and dry between soaks.
  
  

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

• Wear open-toed or roomy footwear to avoid pressure on the toe.
  

Important: Never attempt to cut out the nail yourself, especially if there's an infection, if you have diabetes, or if your immune system is compromised.

When to See a Podiatrist

You should contact a podiatrist if:

• There's persistent pain, swelling, or discharge
  
  

• Signs of infection appear
  
  

• You have diabetes or circulation issues
  
  

• The ingrown nail keeps coming back
  

At South Dublin Podiatry, we offer expert care tailored to your needs, from simple nail treatments to minor surgical procedures to remove part of the nail and prevent recurrence. Click HERE to read our blog on ingrown toenail surgery.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

Prevention starts with good foot care habits:

• Cut toenails straight across, not curved
  
  

• Avoid trimming nails too short
  
  

• Wear shoes that fit well and provide enough room for your toes
  
  

• Keep feet clean and dry, especially after exercise
  

Don’t let a small problem like an ingrown toenail keep you from enjoying your day. If you’re dealing with discomfort, book an appointment with one of our experienced podiatrists. At South Dublin Podiatry we’re committed to helping you get back on your feet, pain-free.

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