Condition
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition that occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to discomfort, swelling, redness, and infection, making everyday activities such as walking, exercising, or wearing footwear increasingly uncomfortable.
At Celtic Podiatry, we provide professional assessment and treatment for ingrown toenails, helping to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent recurring problems. Our experienced podiatrists offer safe and effective treatment options tailored to the severity of your symptoms and your individual needs.
Condition
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail develops when the side or corner of the nail presses into or pierces the surrounding skin.
This most commonly affects the big toenail but can occur on any toe.
As the nail continues to grow into the skin, it can cause:
- Pain and tenderness
- Redness and swelling
- Infection or discharge
- Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably
- Sensitivity when walking or exercising
- Overgrowth of skin around the nail
Without treatment, ingrown toenails can become increasingly painful and may lead to ongoing infection or repeated recurrence.
Condition
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons, including:
- Incorrect nail cutting
- Curved or naturally shaped nails
- Tight or poorly fitting footwear
- Repeated pressure or trauma to the toes
- Sweaty feet or excessive moisture
- Sports and activity-related toe injuries
- Thickened nails or fungal nails
- Swelling around the nail area
- Genetic predisposition
Some patients may experience recurring ingrown toenails due to nail shape or long-term pressure on the toes.
Common Symptoms
Patients with ingrown toenails may experience:
- Pain down the side of the nail
- Swelling and redness around the toe
- Tenderness when pressure is applied
- Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably
- Infection or fluid discharge
- Skin growing over the nail edge
- Throbbing discomfort or inflammation
Symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe pain and infection if left untreated.
Condition
How Celtic Podiatry Can Help
At Celtic Podiatry, we focus on relieving pain whilst addressing the underlying cause of the ingrown toenail.
Your assessment may include:
- Clinical examination of the nail and surrounding skin
- Assessment of infection or inflammation
- Nail shape and pressure assessment
- Footwear advice and prevention guidance
Depending on your individual needs, treatment options may include:
- Conservative ingrown toenail treatment
- Professional nail trimming and nail care
- Removal of offending nail spicules
- Reduction of thickened nails
- Infection management advice
- Padding and pressure relief
- Footwear guidance
- Nail surgery where appropriate for recurring problems
Our podiatrists will discuss the most suitable treatment option for you and help reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
Nail Surgery for Recurring Ingrown Toenails
For patients experiencing persistent or recurring ingrown toenails, nail surgery may be recommended.
This minor podiatric procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and involves removing part or all of the problematic nail to prevent ongoing pain and infection.
Nail surgery is a highly effective long-term solution for chronic ingrown toenail problems.
Condition
When Should You Seek Professional Help
It is important to seek professional advice if you experience:
- Persistent toe pain or swelling
- Signs of infection or discharge
- Difficulty walking comfortably
- Recurring ingrown toenails
- Pain when wearing footwear
- Bleeding or inflamed skin around the nail
- Diabetes or circulation concerns affecting the feet
Attempting to cut deeply into the nail yourself can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of infection.
Need Help With an Ingrown Toenail?
Book an appointment with our experienced podiatry team for safe, professional treatment designed to relieve pain and restore comfort.
We also offer flexible membership options designed to make ongoing podiatry treatment and routine foot care more affordable and accessible.
What We Treat
A Patient-First Experience Designed around Total Comfort & Accessibility
