Why Do I Keep Getting Ingrown Toenails?
If you've ever had an ingrown toenail, you'll know how painful they can be.
The skin around the nail can become sore, red and swollen, and in some cases an infection can develop. Ingrown toenails most commonly affect the big toe, although any toenail can be affected. [1][2]
But if yours keeps coming back, you might be wondering:
Why does my toenail keep becoming ingrown?
The answer isn't always as simple as cutting your nails differently.
What causes an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into or pierces the surrounding skin.
Several factors can contribute, including:
Cutting the nails too short or down the sides
Tight or poorly fitting footwear
Trauma to the nail
Naturally curved or involuted nails
The shape of your toes or feet
The way you walk or load your feet [1]
The Royal College of Podiatry also notes that foot deformities and gait can contribute to someone being more prone to ingrown toenails. [1]
Why does my ingrown toenail keep coming back?
This is where things can become more complicated.
If you repeatedly cut down the side of an uncomfortable nail, you may actually leave a small spike of nail that can grow into the surrounding skin. [1]
But recurrent ingrown toenails aren't always caused by nail-cutting habits. The shape and growth pattern of the nail, footwear, pressure and the structure and function of the foot can all play a role. [1]
So if it keeps happening, simply cutting the nail differently may not solve the problem.
Can I treat an ingrown toenail myself?
For a mild ingrown toenail, keep the foot clean and dry, wear wide, comfortable footwear and avoid picking or cutting the affected nail.
However, don't dig down the side of the nail or try to cut out the painful section yourself. This can cause further injury and may make the problem worse.
If you have increasing pain, swelling, discharge or other signs of infection, make an appointment with a podiatrist to have the toe checked.
You should also arrange an assessment promptly if you have diabetes, as foot problems can be more serious.
What can a podiatrist do?
A podiatrist can assess the nail, surrounding skin and contributing factors before recommending the most appropriate treatment.
Depending on the severity, this might include conservative treatment such as removing the offending nail edge and reducing pressure around the toe. [1]
For recurrent or problematic ingrown toenails, nail surgery may be considered. This can involve removing part of the nail and treating the nail-producing area to reduce the likelihood of that section growing back. [1][3]
Nail surgery isn't automatically necessary for every ingrown toenail, and the most appropriate approach depends on the individual.
Evidence from systematic reviews suggests that some surgical techniques can reduce recurrence, particularly when the nail-producing area is treated.[3]
How can you reduce your risk?
Simple measures can help:
Cut toenails straight across
Don't cut them excessively short
Avoid cutting down the sides
Wear footwear with enough room around the toes
Don't pick or tear at your nails [1][2]
If you're prone to recurring ingrown toenails, professional assessment can help identify factors that may be contributing to the problem.
At Brandon Podiatry, we look beyond the nail
An ingrown toenail isn't always just a nail-cutting problem.
Sometimes, the nail is only part of the story.
At Brandon Podiatry, we can assess the nail and surrounding tissues, consider contributing factors and discuss the most appropriate treatment options for you.
Because treating the painful nail is one thing.
Understanding why it keeps happening is another. 👣
If your ingrown toenail keeps returning, book an assessment with Brandon Podiatry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut an ingrown toenail myself?
No. Do not try to dig down the sides, cut out the ingrown section or treat it yourself. This can cause further trauma, worsen the problem or increase the risk of infection. Instead, arrange an assessment with a podiatrist. [1][2]
What should I do if I think I have an ingrown toenail?
Avoid picking, cutting down the sides or attempting to remove the nail yourself. Wear comfortable, wide-fitting footwear and keep the area clean and dry. A podiatrist can assess the toe and recommend the most appropriate treatment. [1][2]
Does an ingrown toenail always need surgery?
No. Many ingrown toenails can be managed conservatively. Nail surgery may be considered when the problem is particularly troublesome or keeps coming back. A podiatrist can discuss the available options with you. [1][3]
Can tight shoes cause ingrown toenails?
Tight or poorly fitting footwear can place pressure on the toes and contribute to ingrown toenails. Wearing shoes with enough room around the toes may help reduce pressure. [1][2]
When should I see a podiatrist?
You should seek advice from a podiatrist rather than trying to treat the problem yourself, particularly if the toe is very painful, swollen, producing discharge or the problem keeps returning. If you have diabetes, seek professional advice promptly. [1][2]
Can a podiatrist treat an ingrown toenail?
Yes. Podiatrists can assess and treat ingrown toenails, with treatment depending on the severity and individual circumstances. They can also help identify factors that may be contributing to recurrent problems. [1][2]
References
[1] Royal College of Podiatry. Ingrowing Toenail. Information on causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention.Royal College of Podiatry – Ingrowing Toenail
[2] NHS. Ingrown toenail. Information on symptoms, self-care, when to seek medical advice and treatment options.NHS – Ingrown toenail
[3] Exley V, Jones K, O'Carroll G, Watson J, Backhouse M. (2023). A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials on surgical treatments for ingrown toenails part I: recurrence and relief of symptoms. Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, 16, 35.PubMed – Systematic review of surgical treatments for ingrown toenails
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