Ingrown Toenail Treatment

An ingrown toenail—medically known as onychocryptosis—occurs when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause irritation, swelling, and pain that often worsens without proper care. While an ingrown toenail may start as a minor nuisance, it can quickly become a recurring problem or lead to infection, especially if left untreated. At Ankle & Foot Specialists of Puget Sound, we provide expert diagnosis and effective treatment options to relieve discomfort and restore healthy nail growth.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails are extremely common and can affect people of all ages. They are especially frequent in athletes and individuals who spend long hours on their feet. The most frequent causes include:

  • Tight or ill-fitting shoes

  • Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or curved)

  • Naturally curved or thick toenails

  • Foot trauma, such as stubbing or dropping something on the toe

  • Poor foot hygiene

  • Genetics or inherited nail shape

  • Poor posture or gait mechanics

The big toe is most commonly affected, but any toenail can develop this condition.

Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail

Symptoms can vary from mild irritation to severe pain and infection. Common signs include:

  • Tenderness or pain along one or both sides of the nail

  • Redness and swelling around the affected area

  • Warmth in the toe

  • Drainage of pus or fluid (a sign of infection)

  • Difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably

If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a compromised immune system, ingrown toenails require prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications.

Diagnosis of Ingrown Toenails

Most ingrown toenails can be diagnosed during a simple physical exam. In some cases—especially if trauma is involved or infection is suspected—your podiatrist may order an X-ray to:

  • Check for bone involvement

  • Assess the depth of the nail

  • Rule out underlying structural issues

Accurate diagnosis ensures the most effective treatment plan for your specific condition.

Ingrown Toenail Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail and whether infection is present. We offer both conservative and procedural solutions.

Conservative (At-Home) Care for Mild Cases

If your ingrown toenail is not infected, it may improve with simple at-home treatments such as:

  • Warm foot soaks to reduce swelling and soften the skin

  • Gently lifting or padding the nail edge to keep it from cutting into the skin

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort

  • Topical antibiotic ointments to prevent infection

  • Proper nail trimming techniques to prevent recurrence

While these methods can be effective, it’s important to avoid aggressive “bathroom surgery,” which can worsen the condition.

Professional Treatment for Moderate to Severe Cases

If the ingrown toenail is infected, extremely painful, or keeps coming back, professional treatment is recommended. Our podiatrists may perform:

Partial Nail Removal (Partial Nail Avulsion)

Only the portion of the nail causing irritation is removed, relieving pressure and preventing regrowth into the skin.

Complete Nail Removal

In severe or repeated infections, removing the entire nail may be the best option for long-term relief.

Matrixectomy (Permanent Nail Correction)

For chronic ingrown toenails, the nail root (matrix) may be treated to prevent the problematic edge from growing back permanently.

These procedures are typically quick, minimally invasive, and performed under local anesthesia. Most patients return to normal activities shortly afterward.

When to See a Podiatrist

Schedule an appointment if you have:

  • Increasing pain or swelling

  • Signs of infection (pus, warmth, severe redness)

  • Trouble walking or wearing shoes

  • Symptoms that do not improve with at-home care

  • Diabetes, neuropathy, or circulation issues

Early treatment prevents complications and offers long-lasting relief.

Find Relief From Ingrown Toenail Pain Today

Ingrown toenails can be painful and persistent—but professional treatment provides fast, effective relief. At Ankle & Foot Specialists of Puget Sound, our experienced podiatrists offer comprehensive care to treat the problem and prevent it from returning.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and restore comfort to your feet.

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