Ingrown Nails

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of growing straight out. This most commonly affects the big toe and can cause pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness along the nail edge.

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can become infected, making everyday activities such as walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons, including:

• Improper nail trimming, such as cutting the corners too short or rounding the edges.

• Tight-fitting shoes that place pressure on the toes.

• Repeated trauma from running, hiking, or sports.

• Naturally curved or thick toenails.

• Injury to the toe.

• Genetics, as some people naturally have nails that curve into the skin.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons, including:

• Improper nail trimming, such as cutting the corners too short or rounding the edges.

• Tight-fitting shoes that place pressure on the toes.

• Repeated trauma from running, hiking, or sports.

• Naturally curved or thick toenails.

• Injury to the toe.

• Genetics, as some people naturally have nails that curve into the skin.

When Should You Seek Treatment?

You should have an ingrown toenail assessed if you experience:

• Pain or tenderness along the nail edge.

• Redness or swelling around the nail.

• Drainage or signs of infection.

• Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably.

• Recurrent ingrown toenails.

• Diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation in your feet.

Early treatment can often prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the risk of infection.

How Can Sooke Foot Care and Wellness Help?

At Sooke Foot Care and Wellness, we provide professional assessment and conservative treatment for ingrown toenails.

Treatment may include:

• Gentle lifting and removal of the offending nail edge when appropriate.

• Professional nail trimming and reduction.

• Education on proper nail-cutting techniques.

• Advice on footwear to reduce pressure on the toes.

• Ongoing monitoring to help prevent recurrence.

For chronic or recurrent ingrown toenails, we also offer Onyfix® Nail Correction. Onyfix is a non-invasive nail correction system that gradually guides the nail into a healthier growth pattern without surgery or removing the nail. It is a comfortable treatment that allows you to continue your normal daily activities while the nail grows naturally.

If your ingrown toenail is severely infected or requires medical or surgical management, we will recommend referral to the appropriate healthcare provider.

Book an Ingrown Toenail Assessment

If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or recurring ingrown toenails, don't wait until the problem worsens. Book an assessment with Sooke Foot Care and Wellness to discuss the treatment options that are right for you.