A Podiatrist’s Guide to Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail might seem like a small annoyance you can ignore, but this common foot problem can quickly escalate into something much more serious if left untreated. At the Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute, we see the consequences of neglected ingrown toenails far too often. This guide explains what causes them, how to recognize the problem, and why prompt treatment is crucial.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails most commonly affect the big toe, but any toenail can be affected. Common causes include:

• Improper Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners.
• Tight Shoes: Pressure from ill-fitting shoes that crowd the toes.
• Heredity: Some people are genetically predisposed to ingrown toenails due to their nail shape.
• Trauma: Stubbing your toe or other injuries to the nail.
• Fungal Infections: Thickened nails resulting from a fungal infection may be more prone to becoming ingrown.

From Discomfort to Danger

A seemingly minor ingrown toenail can progress to a serious health concern much faster than you’d expect.

Stage 1: Mild Discomfort and Inflammation

• What it Looks Like: The skin around the nail may be slightly red, swollen, and tender to the touch.
• What’s Happening: The nail is starting to irritate the surrounding skin.
• What Can Happen: If addressed promptly, this stage is usually easily treated.

Stage 2: Increased Pain and Infection Risk

• What it Looks Like: Increased redness, swelling, and pain. You might notice drainage (pus) from the area.
• What’s Happening: Bacteria have entered the broken skin, causing an infection.
• What Can Happen: The infection can spread to the surrounding tissues (cellulitis).

Stage 3: Severe Infection and Complications

• What it Looks Like: Significant swelling, redness, and pain. The toe may be warm to the touch. You might have a fever.
• What’s Happening: The infection has spread, potentially to the bone (osteomyelitis). This is particularly dangerous for individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems.
• What Can Happen: Severe infections can lead to serious complications, including tissue death (gangrene) and, in rare cases, even amputation.

Fast, Effective Relief

Partial Nail Avulsion is a simple, in-office procedure in which the ingrown portion of the nail is removed under local anesthesia. This provides immediate relief and has a very high success rate (around 99% chance of the problem never returning).

Recovery is typically quick, with minimal discomfort. Most patients, even kids, can resume normal activities (including sports like soccer!) very soon after the procedure.

We Can Help!

Don’t let a seemingly minor ingrown toenail turn into a major health problem. If you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, don’t delay – come see us.

Like Dr. Michaels always says:

“If it’s below the knee, think of me!”

Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute, LLC offers comprehensive podiatric services. Call us at 301-797-8554 or contact us to schedule an appointment. Located in Hagerstown & Frederick, MD, we’re ready to meet any of your foot health needs.