Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. They most commonly affect the big toe.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges

• Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes

• Toe injuries or trauma

• Genetic predisposition (naturally curved nails)

• Conditions like diabetes that affect circulation

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness along the nail edge

• Redness and swelling

• Possible pus or infection if left untreated

Treatment Options

• Home Remedies:

  • Soak the foot in warm water with Epsom salt for 15-20 minutes.

  • Apply antibiotic ointment and keep the toe bandaged.

  • Wear open-toed or wide shoes to reduce pressure.

• Medical Treatments:​

  • Partial nail removal: If the ingrown nail is severe, part of it may be trimmed.

  • Total nail removal: For recurring cases, the nail bed may be treated to prevent regrowth.

Prevention Tips

• Trim nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges.

• Wear properly fitting shoes with enough toe space.

• Keep feet clean and dry to prevent infections.