Ingrown Toenails

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails can result from a variety of factors:

• Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounded)
• Tight or narrow shoes that compress the toes
• Trauma or stubbing of the toe
• Genetics or naturally curved nails
• Nail infections or skin conditions
• Repeated pressure or friction from activity

The big toe is most commonly affected, but any toenail can become ingrown.

Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail

• Redness and swelling along one or both nail borders
• Pain when walking, wearing shoes, or touching the toe
• Drainage or pus (indicating infection)
• Thickened skin or granulation tissue around the nail
• Recurrent flare-ups despite home care

Do I Need to See a Podiatrist?

Yes — especially if:

✅ The area becomes red, swollen, or shows signs of infection
✅ You have diabetes, neuropathy, or poor circulation
✅ You’ve had multiple episodes with no lasting relief
✅ The pain is affecting your ability to walk or wear shoes

Ingrown Toenail Treatments

???? Conservative Nail Care
For early or mild cases, we may gently lift the nail edge and place a soft splint, combined with antibiotics and nail trimming education.

???? Permanent Nail Border Removal
For recurring or infected nails, we perform a simple in-office procedure called a partial nail avulsion. The ingrown edge is removed under local anesthesia, and a chemical (phenol or sodium hydroxide) is applied to prevent regrowth.

???? Total Nail Removal
In rare or severe cases, especially with fungus or repeated trauma, the entire nail may be removed and allowed to grow back naturally or be permanently removed.

What to Expect from the Procedure

• Performed in-office under local anesthesia
• Entire visit takes 30–45 minutes
• Minimal downtime — most return to walking the same day
• Light dressing and soak instructions provided
• Most patients feel immediate pain relief after the procedure
• Follow-up for wound care and long-term prevention strategies

For Diabetic & High-Risk Patients

If you have diabetes, neuropathy, or circulatory issues, ingrown toenails can lead to serious infections, wounds, or ulcers. We offer diabetic foot care with early intervention and preventive nail care to protect you from complications.

Prevent Future Ingrown Toenails

• Trim nails straight across, not curved
• Avoid cutting too short or digging into corners
• Wear shoes with a wide toe box
• Seek prompt treatment at the first sign of discomfort
• Consider permanent removal if the problem keeps coming back