Understanding Ingrown Toenails
January 27, 2025
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem that can cause discomfort and pain. They occur when the edge or corner of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Though they might seem like a minor issue at first, ingrown toenails can become severely painful if not treated properly. 
In this informational blog, I’ll provide information about the cause of ingrown toenails, prevention including proper nail care and treatment.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons:
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Tight Footwear: Shoes that are too tight, especially at the toe, can cause pressure on the toenails, pushing them into the skin.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
Preventing ingrown toenails begins with proper foot care and attention to how you cut your nails:
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Wear Proper-Fitting Shoes: Choose shoes that provide enough space for your toes to move freely. Tight shoes can force the toenails into the skin, leading to ingrown nails.
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Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Fungal infections or bacteria can complicate the condition of an ingrown toenail. Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly to prevent infection.
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Use the Right Tools: Invest in a good pair of toenail clippers that are specifically designed for thicker toenails. Avoid using scissors or general nail clippers, as they may cause uneven cuts.
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Trim Straight Across: Cut your nails straight across, keeping the edges even. Don’t curve the clippers along the natural curve of the toe, as this can cause the nail to grow into the skin. Never dig into the corners of your toenail, as this is one of the primary causes of ingrown nails. Let the corners grow naturally and trim them evenly with the rest of the nail.
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Don’t Cut Too Short: Leave a small amount of nail extending beyond the edge of the toe. This protects the nail bed and helps prevent it from embedding into the skin.
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File Sharp Edges: If you have any sharp or jagged edges, use a nail file to smooth them out instead of cutting them further.
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Soak Your Feet: Soaking your feet in warm water can help soften the nail and reduce swelling if you’re already dealing with an ingrown toenail.
When Surgery Might Be Necessary for Ingrown Toenails
In most cases, ingrown toenails can be treated at home or with a visit to a podiatrist. However, if the condition becomes severe or chronic, surgery may be required. Surgery is generally recommended when:
There are two main types of surgery used to treat ingrown toenails:
Partial Nail Removal (Wedge Resection)
In a wedge resection, a small portion of the toenail is removed, usually from the side where the ingrown toenail has embedded into the skin. This can help relieve pressure and allow the nail to grow properly. In some cases, the nail may need to be permanently removed.
Total Nail Removal (Matrixectomy)
In more severe cases, the entire toenail may need to be removed. This procedure involves numbing the toe with a local anesthetic and then removing the entire nail and the underlying tissue. In some instances, a chemical or laser is used to destroy the nail matrix (the tissue responsible for nail growth), preventing the toenail from growing back.
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
After toenail surgery, you’ll need to follow certain steps to ensure proper healing and avoid complications including keeping the area clean and dry, wearing loose shoes, taking pain relievers as prescribed and following up with your podiatrist to ensure the toe is healing properly.
Ingrown toenails are a painful but preventable condition, and proper nail care is key to avoiding them. By following good foot hygiene, cutting your toenails correctly, and wearing appropriate footwear, you can reduce the risk of ingrown toenails. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the toenail and promote healing. If you're suffering from an ingrown toenail that won’t go away or keeps coming back, consider visiting a healthcare provider to discuss the best treatment options for you.
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