Why Do I Keep Getting Ingrown Toenails, and How Can They Be Treated or Prevented?
Ingrown toenails are a common — and painful — foot issue that many Australians experience more than once. If you find yourself frequently dealing with redness, swelling, or tenderness around your toenails, especially the big toe, you’re not alone. But why do ingrown toenails keep coming back, and more importantly, what can you do about them?
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing discomfort, inflammation, and sometimes infection. The most commonly affected nail is the big toe, but it can happen to any toe.
Why Do Ingrown Toenails Keep Coming Back?
Several factors can cause recurring ingrown toenails, including:
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Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
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Tight Footwear: Shoes that squeeze your toes together can press the nail into the skin.
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Genetics: Some people naturally have curved or fan-shaped toenails that are more likely to become ingrown.
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Injury or Trauma: Stubbing your toe or repeated pressure from activities like running or kicking sports can lead to nail damage.
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Poor Foot Hygiene: Excessive moisture, sweat, or fungal infections can contribute to nail problems.
How to Treat an Ingrown Toenail
If caught early, mild ingrown toenails can often be treated at home. However, persistent or severe cases should always be seen by a podiatrist.
At-home care may include:
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Soaking your foot in warm, salty water to reduce swelling.
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Gently lifting the nail edge using clean cotton or dental floss (if advised by a professional).
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Applying antiseptic cream to prevent infection.
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Wearing open-toed or wide-fitting shoes to reduce pressure.
Professional podiatry treatments include:
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Safe nail trimming to relieve pressure and reduce the chance of regrowth into the skin.
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Partial nail avulsion (a minor procedure under local anaesthetic to remove part of the nail).
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Nail matrix sterilisation to prevent the problem from recurring permanently.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
Prevention is always better than cure. Follow these tips to help avoid recurring ingrown nails:
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Trim toenails following the contour of the nail.
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Avoid cutting with scissors
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Wear shoes that fit well, with enough room for your toes.
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Keep your feet clean and dry.
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See a podiatrist regularly if you’re prone to ingrown nails or have underlying issues like diabetes.
When to See a Podiatrist
Don’t ignore the signs of an ingrown toenail. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, swelling, discharge, or signs of infection, book an appointment with a podiatrist. Early intervention can prevent complications and help you stay pain-free.
Looking for ingrown toenail treatment near you?
At Foot HQ Podiatry, we specialise in gentle, effective care for ingrown toenails. Visit us at Suite 1, 28–30 Urunga Parade, Miranda NSW 2228, or call us on (02) 8520 8818 to book a consultation today.
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