What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. The big toe is most commonly affected, but any toenail can become ingrown. As the nail presses into the skin, the area can become irritated, inflamed, and vulnerable to infection.
Causes
Ingrown toenails may be caused by trimming nails too short or rounding the corners, tight shoes, trauma to the toe, inherited nail shape, thickened nails, fungal nail changes, repeated pressure from sports, or poor foot hygiene. People with diabetes, circulation problems, or nerve damage should take ingrown toenails especially seriously.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include pain along the nail border, redness, swelling, tenderness, warmth, drainage, pus, bleeding tissue, or difficulty wearing shoes. Infection may cause worsening pain, spreading redness, odor, or fluid.
Treatment at DFW Foot and Ankle
Treatment depends on severity. Mild cases may improve with professional trimming, footwear changes, and soaking instructions. More painful or infected cases may require an in-office procedure to remove the ingrown portion of the nail. For recurring ingrown toenails, Dr. Suh may recommend a procedure to prevent the problem nail border from growing back.
Why Not Treat It Yourself?
Cutting deeply into the nail at home can make the problem worse and increase the risk of infection. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should not attempt bathroom surgery or self-removal. Professional care is safer and usually provides faster relief.
Prevention
To reduce recurrence, trim toenails straight across, avoid cutting them too short, wear shoes with enough toe room, keep feet clean and dry, and address fungal or thickened nails early.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
See a podiatrist if pain, swelling, drainage, infection, or recurring ingrown nails develop.
Is ingrown toenail removal painful?
The toe can be numbed for in-office treatment, making the procedure much more comfortable.
Can ingrown toenails come back?
Yes. If the nail shape or growth pattern causes recurrence, a permanent border procedure may help.