What Should I Do If I Have Ingrown Toenails?

An ingrown toenail may seem like a minor issue at first, but it quickly becomes a painful, persistent, and sometimes serious condition for many people. From difficulty walking to dealing with constant discomfort in shoes, ingrown toenails can significantly impact your daily routine and overall quality of life.

At QCity Podiatry, we specialise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing ingrown toenails for patients of all ages. Whether you’re dealing with your first ingrown toenail or you’ve been battling recurring issues, this guide will walk you through what to do, what not to do, and how we can help you get long-term relief.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the edge or corner of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, rather than over it, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and in many cases, infection. The condition most commonly affects the big toe, but it can affect any toe.

While ingrown toenails can range from mildly uncomfortable to severely painful, they are generally treatable, especially with professional help.

What Does an Ingrown Toenail Look and Feel Like?

Common Symptoms:

• Pain or tenderness around the nail margin, especially when pressure is applied
• Redness, swelling, or inflammation near the nail edge
• Warmth in the area
• Fluid or pus discharge (a sign of infection)
• Overgrowth of skin around the nail (called granulation tissue)
• Difficulty wearing enclosed shoes or walking normally

Left untreated, even a small ingrown toenail can worsen and lead to infection or deeper tissue damage, especially if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a compromised immune system.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail, including:

Incorrect Nail Cutting

Cutting toenails too short or curving the edges can cause the skin to fold over the nail as it grows out, encouraging it to pierce the skin.

Poor-Fitting Footwear

Shoes that are too tight, narrow, or pointed can press the nail edge into the skin, increasing the chance of an ingrown nail.

Trauma or Repetitive Pressure

Nail growth can be altered by injuries to the toe (like stubbing or dropping something on it) or repetitive stress from running or sports.

Nail Shape or Genetics

Some people naturally have curved or wide toenails that are more prone to becoming ingrown.

Poor Hygiene or Foot Conditions

Excessive sweating, fungal nail infections, or neglecting foot hygiene can cause the nail and surrounding skin to become soft, creating an environment that promotes ingrowth.

What Can I Do at Home?

For early or mild cases, you may be able to relieve symptoms at home using these gentle, non-invasive care techniques:

Soak Your Feet

Soak your foot in warm, salty water (or with antiseptic solution) for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day. This helps reduce swelling and softens the skin.

Dry Feet Thoroughly

After soaking, gently dry your foot, especially between the toes, to prevent bacterial growth.

Apply Antiseptic Cream

Use a topical antiseptic (like Betadine or Savlon) and cover the toe with a clean, breathable bandage.

Wear Open or Roomy Footwear

Avoid tight or enclosed shoes. Opt for sandals or shoes with a wide toe box to prevent pressure on the area.

Avoid Self-Treatment Techniques

Do not try to:

• Cut the ingrown part of the nail yourself
• Use sharp instruments to dig or pry the nail out
• Insert cotton or floss under the nail (this can worsen the condition)

These actions may cause more damage and significantly increase your risk of infection.

When Should I See a Podiatrist?

Professional podiatry care is highly recommended if:

• You experience increasing pain, redness, or swelling
• You notice pus, bleeding, or discharge
• The nail continues to grow into the skin
• The area becomes infected or develops granulation tissue
• You’ve had recurrent ingrown toenails
• You have a health condition such as diabetes, poor circulation, or immune suppression

At QCity Podiatry, we provide gentle, effective care using evidence-based methods to resolve ingrown toenails and prevent recurrence.

What Treatment Options Are Available at QCity Podiatry?

We offer a range of treatment options based on the severity of your ingrown toenail and your individual health needs.

Conservative Nail Management

For mild cases, we may carefully trim the offending nail edge, clean the area, and apply dressings to relieve pressure and promote healing. We’ll also advise on footwear and nail-cutting techniques.

Nail Bracing

We may use nail bracing systems to correct the nail’s growth pattern without surgery for chronic, curved nails.

Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) with Phenolisation

This minor surgical procedure is done under local anaesthetic and involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail. We then apply a chemical (phenol) to prevent the problematic edge from growing back.

• Fast, permanent solution for recurring cases
• Minimally invasive with minimal discomfort
• Most people return to normal activities within a day or two

Total Nail Avulsion

In rare cases where the entire nail is diseased, severely deformed, or chronically infected, we may recommend complete nail removal.

We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each option and ensure you feel comfortable with the treatment plan.

What Happens After Treatment?

Following treatment, we provide:

• Wound care instructions
• Advice on activity levels and footwear during recovery
• Scheduled reviews to monitor healing
• Preventive guidance to stop it from happening again

Most people recover quickly and with minimal downtime. We’ll also educate you on how to cut your nails properly and choose the right shoes moving forward.

Can Ingrown Toenails Be Prevented?

Yes, especially with proactive care and attention. Here’s how:

Nail Cutting Tips:

• Cut toenails straight across, not curved
• Avoid trimming too short or digging at the edges
• Use clean, sharp nail clippers—not scissors
• If you have poor vision or flexibility, see a podiatrist for regular nail care

Footwear Tips:

• Choose shoes with plenty of room around the toes
• Avoid narrow, pointed, or high-heeled shoes
• Ensure socks are not too tight or bunched around the toes

Hygiene Tips:

• Keep feet clean and dry
• Change socks daily
• Avoid sharing nail tools
• Treat fungal nail infections promptly

Why Choose QCity Podiatry for Ingrown Toenail Care?

At QCity Podiatry, our experienced podiatrists offer professional, comfortable, and effective treatment for all ingrown toenails. We’re committed to:

• Listening to your concerns and answering your questions
• Providing gentle treatment tailored to your comfort
• Using modern tools and techniques for precision care
• Helping you stay pain-free and prevent future issues

We serve patients in Queanbeyan, Googong, Jerrabomberra, and surrounding communities with a warm, patient-centred approach.