An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and sometimes infection.
The condition most commonly affects the big toe and may worsen if pressure from footwear irritates the area.
Common Symptoms
People with an ingrown toenail may experience:
Pain along the edge of the toenail
Redness or swelling around the nail
Tenderness when pressure is applied
Signs of infection such as discharge or increased swelling
Symptoms may worsen if the nail continues to grow into the surrounding skin.
Why It Develops
Ingrown toenails may develop due to several factors including:
Improper nail trimming
Tight or narrow footwear
Nail shape or genetic factors
Injury to the nail
Excessive sweating affecting the skin around the nail
Assessment and Diagnosis
At Absolute Footcare, ingrown toenails are assessed through a clinical examination of the nail and surrounding tissues.
This allows the podiatrist to determine the severity of the condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment
Treatments
Treatment options may include:
Conservative nail care to relieve pressure
Removal of the offending nail edge
Nail surgery for persistent or recurrent cases
Book an Appointment
If you are experiencing pain from an ingrown toenail, an appointment with one of our podiatrists will allow us to assess the nail and recommend appropriate treatment.