An ingrown toenail might seem like a small problem at first, but anyone who’s had one knows just how uncomfortable — and even debilitating — it can become. Whether it starts after trimming your toenail too short, injuring your toe during a game of pick-up soccer, or simply from the way your nail naturally grows, an ingrown toenail can quickly go from mild irritation to a painful, swollen, and infected issue.
At Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Clinics, serving patients across the Minneapolisarea, we see ingrown toenails nearly every day. While many cases can be eased at home, others require professional care from a podiatrist to avoid serious complications. Let’s discuss how to care for an ingrown toenail, what to do when it first appears, and why expert help is important when the condition worsens.
What Exactly Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of your toenail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. This typically affects the big toe but can occur on any toe. The pressure from the nail edge pushing into the skin causes pain, swelling, and inflammation, and if bacteria enter, it can lead to infection.
Common causes include:
- Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges
- Toe injuries, such as stubbing or repeated impact from sports
- Tight or ill-fitting shoes
- Naturally curved or thick toenails
- Poor foot hygiene
Spotting the Early Signs
Catching an ingrown toenail early is the best way to prevent complications. Look out for:
- Pain or tenderness where the nail meets the skin
- Mild swelling or puffiness near the nail edge
- Redness along one or both sides of the nail
If infection sets in, you may also notice:
- Increased swelling
- Warmth around the toe
- Pus or drainage
- Bleeding
- Difficulty walking comfortably
When you notice signs of infection — even if mild — it’s time to call a podiatrist.
Caring for a Mild Ingrown Toenail at Home
If your ingrown toenail is in the early stages and not infected, you can try the following home care methods:
1. Soak Your Foot
Fill a basin with warm water and add Epsom salt. Soak for 15–20 minutes, two to three times a day to soften the skin and reduce swelling.
2. Keep the Area Clean
Wash with soap and water after soaking, then dry thoroughly. Avoid keeping your foot damp for long periods.
3. Lift the Nail Edge Gently
If not too painful, place a small piece of clean cotton or unwaxed dental floss under the edge of the nail to help guide it above the skin. Replace daily.
4. Apply Antibiotic Ointment
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment and cover the toe with a clean bandage.
5. Wear Open-Toed or Roomy Shoes
Switch to sandals or shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the affected area.
When It’s Time to See a Podiatrist
While some ingrown toenails resolve with home care, you should seek professional treatment if:
- You have severe pain or swelling
- There’s pus, bleeding, or signs of infection
- The issue is recurring
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or delayed healing
- You’re unable to manage the nail yourself
Ignoring an infected toenail may result in deeper infections and serious complications, especially if your immune system is compromised.
How We Treat Ingrown Toenails at Pinnacle Foot and Ankle
At our Minneapolis-area clinics, we offer a range of treatment options based on the severity of your condition:
Conservative Care
For mild to moderate cases, we use special techniques to lift and splint the nail, paired with prescription-strength topical treatments.
Antibiotics
If infection is present, oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed.
Partial Nail Removal
For more serious or recurring cases, part of the nail may be removed under local anesthesia.
Permanent Nail Removal (Matricectomy)
If the nail continues to grow inward, we can permanently remove the nail root to prevent regrowth in the affected area.
Our goal is always to relieve pain quickly and prevent recurrence.
Don’t Wait Until It Hurts to Walk
One of the most common mistakes is waiting too long to seek help. A slightly sore toenail today can become severely infected in just a few days. If walking becomes painful or you notice signs of infection, schedule a podiatry appointment right away.