What causes them

What causes ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails happen when the edge of a nail presses into the skin instead of growing over it.

Improper Trimming

Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners invites ingrowth.

Tight Shoes

Cramped footwear presses the nail into the skin.

Curved Nail Shape

Naturally curved nails are more likely to grow inward.

Toe Injury

Stubbing or dropping something on the toe can trigger it.

Sweaty or Moist Feet

Soft skin is more easily pierced by the nail edge.

Genetics

A tendency toward ingrown nails often runs in families.

Understanding it

What an ingrown toenail feels like

It usually starts as mild tenderness and can progress to redness, swelling, and infection if the nail keeps pressing in.

Common signs include:

Pain or tenderness along the nail edge
Redness and swelling around the nail
Warmth or throbbing at the toe
Skin growing over the nail edge
Drainage or signs of infection
Pain when wearing shoes

Why it matters

What happens if it is not treated

An ingrown nail rarely fixes itself, and the area can become infected — especially important for those with diabetes.

InfectionBroken skin lets bacteria in, causing redness and pus.

Recurring ingrowthWithout a lasting fix, the nail tends to grow in again.

Chronic painOngoing pressure keeps the toe sore and tender.

Serious risk with diabetesFor diabetic patients, an infected toe needs prompt care.

How we treat them

Ingrown toenail treatment at Horizon

Relief is usually quick and done right in the office. Dr. Ali also addresses why it happened so it does not return.

Gentle in-office treatmentThe offending nail edge is relieved with minimal discomfort.

Infection careIf infected, we treat it and help the toe heal.

Lasting solutionsFor recurring nails, a simple procedure can prevent the edge from growing back in.

Trimming guidanceWe show you how to trim nails to keep them healthy.

Footwear adviceRoomier shoes reduce pressure on the toe.

Staying ahead of them

Preventing ingrown toenails

A few simple habits keep nails growing the way they should.

Trim nails straight across, not rounded
Avoid cutting nails too short
Wear shoes with enough toe room
Keep feet clean and dry
See a podiatrist for recurring nails

Don't wait

When to see a podiatrist

Do not dig at it — let us help. Reach out if you notice:

Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
Drainage, pus, or signs of infection
An ingrown nail that keeps coming back
Skin growing over the nail
Any foot infection if you have diabetes

Related conditions we treat:

Quick relief from ingrown toenail pain

There is no need to suffer through it. Request an appointment with Dr. Ali for gentle relief and a fix that lasts.

Request an Appointment Call (630) 293-3668

Ingrown Toenails