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DermatologicalICD-10: L60.0Affects approximately 2.5-5% of the population, most commonly in young adults

Ingrown Toenail

Also known as: Onychocryptosis, Ingrown Nail, Ingrowing Toenail

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. It most commonly affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, toenail injuries, or naturally curved nails. While mild cases can often be managed at home, infected or recurring ingrown toenails may require medical or surgical treatment to prevent complications.

Symptoms

Pain and tenderness along the side of the toenail
Redness and swelling around the affected nail edge
Skin growing over the nail edge
Pus or drainage from the area if infected
Increased warmth around the toe
Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably

Causes

  • Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges instead of cutting straight across
  • Wearing tight, narrow, or pointed shoes that press on the toes
  • Toenail injury from stubbing, dropping objects, or athletic activity
  • Naturally curved or thick toenails (genetic predisposition)
  • Poor foot hygiene or excessive sweating

Risk Factors

  • Improper nail trimming techniques
  • Wearing tight-fitting or high-heeled shoes
  • Participating in activities that repeatedly stress the toes (running, soccer, ballet)
  • Diabetes or peripheral vascular disease (higher risk of complications)
  • Adolescence (increased sweating softens nails and surrounding skin)
  • Having unusually curved or thick nails

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination of the affected toe
  • Assessment for signs of infection (pus, increased redness, warmth)
  • X-ray in rare cases to check for bone infection (osteomyelitis) in chronic cases

Treatment

  • Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times daily
  • Placing dental floss or cotton under the ingrown edge to encourage outward growth
  • Applying topical antibiotics and keeping the area clean
  • Partial nail avulsion (removal of the ingrown nail edge) with local anesthesia
  • Permanent nail matrix ablation (chemical or surgical) for recurrent cases
  • Oral antibiotics for established infection

Prevention

  • Trim toenails straight across rather than rounding the corners
  • Keep toenails at a moderate length, even with the tip of the toe
  • Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
  • Keep feet clean and dry
  • Protect toes from injury by wearing appropriate footwear during sports

When to See a Doctor

  • The toe becomes increasingly painful, red, swollen, or warm
  • Pus or drainage develops around the nail
  • You have diabetes or poor circulation and develop an ingrown toenail
  • Home treatments have not improved the condition after 2-3 days

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Type 2 Diabetes

Endocrine

Gout

Musculoskeletal

Arthritis

Musculoskeletal

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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