Ingrown toenails: treatment options and prevention

Ingrown toenails are a common and often uncomfortable foot problem. They occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to soreness, redness, and sometimes infection. While they can affect anyone, ingrown toenails are particularly troublesome because even mild pressure from footwear or walking can aggravate symptoms.

For some people, ingrown toenails are an occasional issue, while for others they recur repeatedly. Understanding why ingrown toenails develop and how they are usually managed can help explain why some cases settle easily and others require more structured treatment.

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of a toenail presses into or breaks the skin alongside it. This most commonly affects the big toe, although other toes can also be involved. As the nail edge irritates the skin, inflammation develops, which may progress to swelling, pain, and infection if the area is repeatedly stressed.

Ingrown toenails can vary in severity. Early stages may involve mild tenderness, while more advanced cases can cause significant pain, discharge, or difficulty wearing shoes.

Why do ingrown toenails develop?

Ingrown toenails usually develop due to a combination of nail shape, pressure, and external factors rather than a single cause. How the nail grows, how the toe is shaped, and how pressure is applied to the toe all influence risk.

Common contributing factors include nail shape or thickness, repeated pressure from footwear, and toe position. Shoes that crowd the toes or apply pressure to the nail edge can increase irritation over time. Repetitive stress from walking or sport can further aggravate the area.

In some cases, previous nail trauma or recurrent inflammation can alter how the nail grows, increasing the likelihood of repeated problems.

What usually helps?

Managing ingrown toenails typically focuses on relieving pressure on the affected area and addressing the way the nail interacts with the surrounding skin. Treatment options vary depending on severity, recurrence, and individual circumstances.

This may involve:

• Removing part or all of the nail
• Reducing pressure around the affected nail
• Addressing factors that contribute to repeated irritation
• Managing inflammation or infection if present
• Considering longer-term solutions for recurrent cases

Because ingrown toenails can worsen if left untreated, early assessment often helps prevent progression to more painful or complicated stages.

When should further advice be considered?

Further assessment is usually recommended if an ingrown toenail is painful, worsening, or recurrent. Signs such as increasing redness, swelling, discharge, or difficulty walking should be reviewed.

People with diabetes, circulatory conditions, or reduced sensation in the feet should seek advice promptly, as foot problems can progress more quickly and require careful management.

Key points to remember

• Ingrown toenails occur when the nail edge presses into the surrounding skin
• They commonly affect the big toe and can range from mild to severe
• Pressure from footwear and toe shape often contribute
• Early podiatry assessment can help prevent worsening symptoms
• Recurrent problems may need a structured treatment approach

This article is for general information only and is not intended as a substitute for individual assessment or medical advice.

Rob Hanley, Clinic Director