Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail develops when the side of the nail presses into the skin instead of growing outward. This can lead to tenderness, inflammation, and, in more advanced cases, infection. While it may start as a minor problem, untreated ingrown toenails can progress quickly and interfere with your daily activities.
Anyone can experience this condition, but it is especially common among people who wear tight shoes, trim their toenails incorrectly, or participate in sports that put extra stress on their feet.
What Are Ingrown Toenails?
An ingrown toenail happens when the corner or side of the nail digs into the skin rather than growing straight out. This issue most often affects the big toe and can lead to redness, irritation, and soreness. Common triggers include trimming toenails too short or frequent pressure from footwear.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
The first signs of an ingrown toenail often include tenderness, swelling, and redness along the edge of the nail. As the condition worsens, pain may increase when walking or wearing shoes. If infection develops, the toe may feel warm and produce drainage or pus. In more advanced cases, excess skin tissue can form around the nail.
Common Causes
One of the most common reasons ingrown toenails form is incorrect nail trimming. When toenails are cut too short or shaped with curved edges, the nail is more likely to dig into the skin as it grows. Shoes that are too tight or narrow can also force the nail inward, while repetitive activities such as running or kicking sports increase stress on the toes. Injuries, such as stubbing a toe or losing a nail, may also result in abnormal regrowth that becomes ingrown.
At-Home Treatment for Mild Cases
Mild, non-infected ingrown toenails can sometimes be managed with simple care at home. Soaking your foot in warm water several times daily can help ease pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, gently placing a bit of cotton or dental floss under the nail edge may encourage it to grow properly above the skin. Applying an antibiotic ointment, choosing open or roomy shoes, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can also help while the toe heals.
When to Seek Professional Treatment
If your pain worsens, signs of infection appear, or ingrown toenails keep coming back, it’s time to see our podiatrists. Professional care ensures the problem is resolved properly and prevents it from progressing into something more serious.
Medical Treatment Options
At Foot & Ankle Specialists of Central PA, we provide several effective treatments depending on the severity of your condition. Antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection is present. In many cases, a splint can be used to gently guide the nail’s growth.
For more stubborn or painful ingrown nails, a small section of the nail may be removed under local anesthesia. If the problem recurs frequently, your podiatrist may recommend removing the entire nail to provide long-term relief.
Expert Ingrown Toenail Care at Foot & Ankle Specialists of Central PA
Our experienced podiatrists take a personalized approach to ingrown toenail treatment, using minimally invasive methods whenever possible. We focus not only on relieving pain but also on preventing the condition from coming back. Patients across Central PA trust us for our expert care, compassionate approach, and dedication to long-term foot health.
Schedule an Appointment
Don’t wait until an ingrown toenail becomes too painful to ignore. Early treatment is the best way to restore comfort and protect your foot health. Contact Foot & Ankle Specialists of Central PA today to schedule your appointment. Take the first step toward pain-free feet—schedule your evaluation today.