Foot Care - In-Growing Toenails

What is an ingrowing toenail?

The nail becomes 'ingrowing' when the side of the nail cuts into the skin next to the nail. This can become painful. The skin next to the nail may also become infected or inflamed. Any toe can be affected, but the big toes are affected most commonly. It is a common problem, especially in teenagers and young adults.

What causes ingrowing toenails?

Sometimes there is no apparent reason why it occurs. Tight fitting shoes may be a cause in some cases. It is also more common in people who cut their toenails very short and “down the sides”.

What is the treatment for an ingrowing toenail?

If caught early, If the 'ingrowing' part of the nail is small, it may be prevented from becoming worse, and sometimes cured, by the following.

• Soak the toe in water for 10 minutes to soften the folds of skin around the affected nail.
• Then, using a cotton wool bud, push the skin fold over the ingrown nail down and away from the nail. Do this starting at the root of the nail and move the cotton wool bud towards the end of the nail.
• Repeat each day for a few weeks, allowing the nail to grow.
• As the end of the nail grows forward, push a tiny piece of cotton wool under it to help the nail grow over the skin and not grow into it. Change the cotton wool daily.
• Do not cut the nail but allow it to grow forward until it is clear of the end of the toe. Then cut it straight across and not rounded off at the end.

If the nailfold becomes infected

Sometimes antibiotic creams or tablets are prescribed.

For persistent ingrown toenails

It may be necessary to remove either part of the nail, or completely remove it after using a local anethetic.