Ingrown Toenails

Definition

An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of the nail penetrates the adjacent skin, most often on the big toe. The medical term is onychocryptosis.

Symptoms

• Pain along the nail margin
• Worse in tight footwear; pressure sensitivity
• Swelling and warmth around the edge of the nail
• With infection, there may be bleeding or discharge

Causes

• Tight or narrow footwear
• Cutting nails too short or leaving sharp corners
• Nail trauma (stubbed toe, heavy object)
• Fungal thickening; sweaty feet softening the skin
• Highly curved (involuted) nails, sometimes hereditary

Gentle Relief for Painful Ingrowns

Calm the inflammation and protect the tender skin while the nail grows clear of the edge.

Risks

If left untreated, infection or even an abscess can develop; rarely, bone infection (osteomyelitis) can occur.

Prevention

• Wear well-fitted shoes; avoid tight or pointed toe boxes
• Keep feet clean and dry
• Cut nails straight across; avoid cutting too short or rounding corners

Conservative Care → Nail Surgery

From wicking and footwear changes to partial nail removal when required — we match treatment to severity.

Treatment

For moderate cases: soak in warm water, apply antibacterial ointment, and gently lift the offending edge with a small cotton or gauze wick changed daily for about two weeks. Avoid tight footwear. If symptoms persist — or in severe cases — a podiatrist may remove the offending nail edge surgically.