Ingrown toenails are one of the most common—and most painful—foot issues people face. They occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to irritation, swelling, and, if untreated, infection. While any toe can be affected, the big toe is usually the culprit.
Why do ingrown toenails happen?
1. Trimming nails too short or rounding the corners,
2. Wearing tight shoes that squeeze the toes
3. Sustaining minor toe injuries.
4. Genetics can also play a role, nails can be naturally curved causing people to be more pronte to ingrowns.
What does it feel like?
Early signs include tenderness, redness, and swelling along the nail edge. As the condition worsens, the area may become warm, painful to the touch, and even produce drainage—clear or yellow—signaling infection.
When should you see a podiatrist?
If home care isn’t easing the pain, or if there’s any sign of infection, professional treatment is the safest approach. A podiatrist can gently remove the offending nail edge and, in chronic cases, perform a quick, nearly painless procedure to prevent that part of the nail from growing back.
Can you prevent them?
Yes! by cutting nails straight across, avoiding overly tight footwear, and keeping the toes clean and dry. Simple habits can go a long way in preventing a very painful problem.
Healthy nails play a big role in overall foot comfort. Treating ingrown toenails early keeps small issues from becoming major setbacks. If you notice pain or drainage from a nail call us at Brucato Foot and Ankle Surgery today for an appointment!
