Suffering from Ingrown Toenail Pain? Find Treatment Options at FitFeet!
Few things are more uncomfortable than an ingrown toenail. What might start as minor pressure can quickly turn into swelling, redness, and pain that makes it difficult to walk or wear shoes. At FitFeet, we see patients of all ages dealing with ingrown toenails—and whether you’ve had one before or are experiencing it for the first time, we want you to know that help is available.
Let’s take a closer look at what causes ingrown toenails, how you can prevent them, and what treatment options we offer to get you back on your feet without pain.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the toenail grows into the skin instead of over it. This often leads to irritation, inflammation, and even infection. The big toe is the most commonly affected, but any toe can develop an ingrown nail. The condition may begin with slight tenderness and progress to more severe pain and swelling if not treated promptly.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Several factors can cause or contribute to ingrown toenails:
Improper Nail Trimming
One of the most common causes is cutting the nails too short or rounding the edges. When the nail grows back, it may curl into the surrounding skin.
Tight Footwear
Shoes that are too tight or narrow can press the toenails into the skin, encouraging them to grow in the wrong direction.
Injury or Trauma
Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or repeated pressure from activities like running can cause the nail to grow abnormally.
Genetics and Nail Shape
Some people are simply more prone to ingrown toenails due to inherited traits like naturally curved or thick nails.
Poor Foot Hygiene
Excessive sweating, improper washing, or failure to dry feet thoroughly can create the perfect environment for ingrown nails and infections.
Symptoms to Watch For
An ingrown toenail may cause:
- Pain or tenderness along the edge of the nail
- Redness or swelling of the surrounding skin
- Warmth or inflammation in the toe
- Pus or drainage (a sign of infection)
- Skin growing over part of the nail
If you notice signs of infection or if the condition doesn’t improve with home care, it’s time to seek professional treatment. At FitFeet, we provide expert podiatric care for even the most stubborn or recurring ingrown toenails.
Home Remedies and When to Use Them
If your ingrown toenail is mild and not infected, a few home remedies might offer relief:
- Soak your foot in warm water 2–3 times a day
- Use a cotton ball or dental floss to gently lift the nail edge
- Apply antibiotic ointment and keep the toe covered
- Wear open-toed or wide shoes to reduce pressure
However, home remedies are not a long-term solution—and they won’t work for moderate or severe cases. If the area becomes red, swollen, or begins to ooze, don’t try to cut or remove the nail yourself. This can worsen the problem or lead to infection.
Professional Treatment Options at FitFeet
At FitFeet, we offer safe, sterile, and effective solutions for treating ingrown toenails—whether it’s your first time or a recurring issue.
In-Office Nail Trimming and Removal
For most patients, a simple in-office procedure to gently remove the ingrown portion of the nail provides immediate relief. We use a local anesthetic to ensure you stay comfortable throughout the process.
Partial Nail Avulsion with Matrixectomy
If you suffer from chronic ingrown nails, we may recommend a partial nail avulsion with matrixectomy, which removes the offending nail edge and treats the root (matrix) to prevent it from growing back. This procedure is quick, relatively painless, and highly effective in stopping the problem from recurring.
Antibiotic Care
If there is an active infection, we may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to clear the infection and support healing.
Learn more about our nail care services in Merrick
Prevention Tips
Most ingrown toenails can be prevented with a few simple habits:
- Trim your toenails straight across—never rounded
- Avoid cutting nails too short
- Wear shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- Don’t pick at or tear the corners of your toenails
- If you have diabetes, check your feet daily and seek podiatric care regularly
If you’re an athlete, work on your feet all day, or have a history of ingrown toenails, taking extra precautions can go a long way in preventing discomfort.
Ingrown Toenails and Diabetes
If you have diabetes, foot problems like ingrown toenails can quickly become serious. Because circulation and nerve function may be reduced, even a minor issue can turn into a serious infection or wound. At FitFeet, we take diabetic foot care seriously and offer specialized treatment to protect your feet and overall health.
Related: The Importance of Diabetic Foot Care
When to See a Podiatrist
You should see a podiatrist if:
- Your toenail is painful, swollen, or oozing
- Home remedies haven’t helped after a few days
- You get ingrown toenails frequently
- You have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation
- You’re unable to trim your nails safely on your own
At FitFeet, we provide personalized, gentle care to resolve your discomfort and keep your feet healthy. We never take a one-size-fits-all approach—your treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and lifestyle.
Get Relief with FitFeet
You don’t have to suffer through the pain of an ingrown toenail. At FitFeet in Merrick and throughout Long Island, Dr. Leon Stepensky and our experienced team are here to help you find lasting relief. Whether you need a simple nail trim, a long-term solution, or guidance on foot hygiene and nail care, we’ll provide compassionate care in a comfortable setting.
Book your appointment with FitFeet today and let us help you walk comfortably and confidently again—because healthy feet are essential for a healthy life.
