What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This condition is most commonly seen in the big toe, although it can occur in any toe. Ingrown toenails can result in pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. The condition can be particularly uncomfortable when pressure is applied to the affected toe, such as when walking or wearing tight-fitting shoes.
What Causes an Ingrown Toenail? Symptoms
Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail:
- Improper Nail Trimming. Cutting the toenails too short or not straight across can encourage the nail to grow into the surrounding skin.
- Tight Footwear. Shoes that are too tight or narrow near the toes can push the nail into the skin.
- Trauma. Injury to the toe, such as stubbing it, can sometimes cause an ingrown toenail.
- Genetics. Some people have naturally curved toenails that are more prone to becoming ingrown.
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the nail
- Swelling around the toenail
- Redness and warmth
- Pus drainage and infection (in more severe cases)
Common Podiatry Treatments & Services for Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are common in the podiatry clinic and will always be managed conservatively prior to any thought of surgery.
Conservative measures include removal of the nail spicule, advice on appropriate footwear and correct nail cutting techniques, if these issues have proven to be contributing to the ingrown toenails.
Nail surgery is only indicated when conservative management of ingrown toenails fails. Surgical intervention may also be required when nails are abnormally curved, thickened, damaged or if fungal infection is a problem.
Conservative Treatment for an ingrown toenail may include:
- Home Remedies. Soaking the foot in warm water mixed with Epsom salt, wearing loose-fitting shoes, and using over-the-counter pain relievers can sometimes alleviate symptoms.
- Podiatric Foot Care. For persistent or recurring ingrown toenails, or for people with diabetes or poor circulation, regular professional podiatric treatment is advised.
- Podofix® Nail Bracing is a non‑surgical nail‑bracing system used to treat ingrown or involuted (curved) toenails. It’s designed to gently lift the sides of the nail so it can grow out in a healthier, straighter shape. This can reduce pain, pressure, and inflammation without needing a nail surgery procedure. This form of nail correction is suitable for nearly everyone, including small children and diabetics. Contact Galleria Podiatry to book your treatment.
Ready to fix your Ingrown Toenail?
For expert advice regarding ingrown toenails, consult Galleria Podiatry for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. If you’re located in Morley and near Bayswater, Galleria Podiatry provides specialised care for foot issues for all patients in the City of Bayswater.
Your Ingrown Toenail Questions Answered
How do I know if my ingrown toenail is infected?
Signs of infection include increased pain, swelling, and redness that spreads beyond the immediate nail area. You may notice pus or yellowish discharge coming from the affected area, warmth to the touch, and the skin may appear shiny or stretched. In some cases, you might develop a fever or notice red streaks extending from the toe. If you suspect your ingrown toenail is infected, it’s important to see a podiatrist promptly, especially if you have diabetes or circulation problems, as infections can become serious quickly.
Can I prevent ingrown toenails from recurring?
Yes, there are several preventive measures you can take. Always cut your toenails straight across rather than curved, and avoid cutting them too short. Leave the edges slightly longer than the flesh of your toe. Wear properly fitted shoes with adequate room in the toe box to prevent pressure on your nails. Avoid tight socks and hosiery that compress your toes. If you have naturally curved nails or recurring problems, the podiatrists at Galleria Podiatry can assess your nail shape and recommend treatments like Podofix® to correct the nail’s growth pattern permanently.
What is Podofix® and how does it work for ingrown toenails?
Podofix® is an innovative, non-surgical treatment that corrects ingrown and involuted (curved) toenails. It works by using a special composite strip that is applied to the nail surface. As the material hardens, it gently lifts and straightens the curved nail over time, relieving pressure on the surrounding skin. This method is suitable for nearly everyone, including children and people with diabetes. At Galleria Podiatry, we offer Podofix® as an effective alternative to surgery, with excellent medical and cosmetic results.
When should I consider nail surgery for my ingrown toenail?
Nail surgery is typically only recommended when conservative treatments have failed to resolve the problem, or when nails are abnormally curved, thickened, damaged, or affected by fungal infection. At Galleria Podiatry, we always try conservative management first, including removal of the nail spicule, proper footwear advice, and correct nail cutting techniques. Surgery involves removing part, or all of the nail plate and matrix under local anaesthetic. Our podiatrists will thoroughly assess your situation and only suggest surgery if it’s truly necessary for your long-term foot health.
Is it safe to treat an ingrown toenail at home?
Mild ingrown toenails can sometimes be managed at home by soaking your foot in warm water mixed with Epsom salt, wearing loose-fitting shoes, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. However, you should never attempt to cut out the ingrown portion yourself, as this can make the problem worse and increase infection risk. If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or if the ingrown toenail doesn’t improve within a few days of home care, you should seek professional treatment at Galleria Podiatry. We can safely remove the problematic nail section and provide appropriate care to prevent complications.
