An ingrown toenail may seem like a small issue, but it can cause major discomfort — especially if it becomes infected. At Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist, we regularly treat patients struggling with the pain, swelling, and redness caused by this condition. The good news? Ingrown toenail prevention is simple with a few key habits, and treatment is effective when caught early.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail happens when the side or corner of the nail grows into the soft skin of the toe. This often affects the big toe and causes irritation, tenderness, and sometimes serious infection.
Common causes include:
- Improper nail trimming (especially cutting nails too short or rounding them)
- Wearing tight or narrow shoes
- Trauma to the toe (from sports or stubbing)
- Naturally curved toenails due to genetics
- Excessive sweating or poor foot hygiene
If untreated, it can worsen and make walking or wearing shoes painful.
Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail
Here’s what to look for:
- Swelling and redness at the nail’s edge
- Pain or sensitivity around the toenail
- Warmth or throbbing in the toe
- Drainage or pus if infection develops
- Skin overgrowth near the nail
If you spot these signs, seek treatment early. Delayed care can lead to more complex procedures later.
5 Smart Ingrown Toenail Prevention Tips
1. Trim Nails Straight Across
Cut nails evenly across the top — never in a curved shape. Avoid cutting too short as it encourages the nail to grow inward.
2. Choose Comfortable Footwear
Tight, narrow, or pointed shoes can cause pressure and increase your risk. Pick shoes that give your toes enough room to move.
3. Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Wash your feet daily and dry thoroughly, especially between toes. Wear breathable socks that wick away moisture.
4. Protect Your Feet from Injury
Wear protective footwear for sports or jobs that involve impact or repetitive pressure to avoid trauma that can lead to ingrown nails.
5. Monitor Foot Health Regularly
Those with diabetes or circulation issues should check their feet daily and schedule routine podiatrist visits.
What to Do If You Already Have an Ingrown Toenail
Important: Avoid trying to dig out or cut the nail yourself. This often makes the problem worse and raises your risk of infection.
When to See a Specialist
If symptoms last more than a few days or worsen, it’s time to visit a podiatrist. At Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist, Dr. Dean Kim offers expert care options:
- Antibiotic therapy
- In-office nail removal for mild cases
- Permanent solutions like partial nail removal or matrixectomy
- Onyfix — a non-surgical option for gently guiding curved nails back to a healthy shape
📖 Learn more about ingrown toenail treatments
Get Expert Help from Dr. Dean Kim
Don’t let an ingrown toenail keep you off your feet. Whether you’re looking to prevent or treat this common condition, our team is here to help.
Call Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist at (469) 384-2135 or book an appointment online. We provide expert foot care in Frisco, TX with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment techniques.
