Ingrown toenails can sneak up on you, turning a simple step into a painful experience. If the edge of your toenail grows into the skin surrounding it, you may have an ingrown toenail. But what if your toenail hurts and it’s not ingrown? This guide will help you identify the signs, prevent the issue, and seek the best treatment options.
Key Signs You May Have an Ingrown Toenail
- Tenderness on the Side of Your Toenail
Does the side of your toenail hurt, but you’re not sure if it’s ingrown? Early irritation or pressure from tight footwear can feel similar to an ingrown toenail, so it’s worth keeping an eye on any discomfort. - Pain When Pressing on the Nail
If your toenail hurts when pressed, this could indicate that the nail is pushing into the sensitive skin beneath it. However, trauma, fungal infections, or bruising might also cause similar pain. - Redness and Swelling
An ingrown toenail often shows itself through inflammation—red, swollen skin around the nail is a classic sign. - Pus or Infection
If pus or fluid is coming from the area, it’s a strong indicator of an infected ingrown toenail. While it might be tempting to try and drain the pus yourself, this can worsen the infection if not done correctly.
- Persistent Pain Without an Obvious Cause
If your toenail hurts when you press on it but it’s not ingrown, the discomfort might be from tight shoes, an injury, or even a fungal infection. A Podiatrist can determine the root cause.
10 Tips to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
- Trim Straight Across
Always cut your nails straight across—never round the corners, as this encourages the nail to grow into the skin. - Avoid Cutting Nails Too Short
Trimming too close to the skin can allow the nail to embed into the surrounding tissue. - Wear Comfortable Shoes
Tight shoes or high heels can compress your toes and push the nail into your skin. Opt for shoes with plenty of room in the toe box. - Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Good hygiene prevents infections and keeps the nail area healthy. - Inspect Your Feet Regularly
Especially important if you have diabetes or circulation problems—catching early signs of trouble can save you a lot of pain. - Avoid Picking or Biting Nails
This can leave jagged edges that dig into the skin and cause irritation. - File Rough Edges
Use a nail file to smooth any sharp or uneven nail edges to prevent them from digging into your skin. - Wear Breathable Socks
Tight or poorly ventilated socks can cause moisture build-up and irritation. - Protect Your Toes During Sports
If you engage in activities that might injure your toes, consider protective footwear to avoid trauma. - Moisturise Your Feet
Keeping the skin soft and supple reduces the chances of the nail piercing the surrounding tissue.
Why See a Podiatrist for Ingrown Toenails?
If your toenail pain persists, even if it doesn’t seem ingrown, a podiatrist can help by offering expert care tailored to your needs.
Accurate Diagnosis
Whether the pain is from an ingrown nail, trauma, or infection, a podiatrist can pinpoint the issue and recommend the best course of action.
Non-Surgical Treatments
In many cases, podiatrists can lift or trim the problematic nail without surgery, easing discomfort and allowing the area to heal naturally. They can also remove part of the nail, preventing you from needing surgery in many cases.
Infection Management
If the area is infected, a podiatrist can safely drain pus and prescribe medication to stop the infection from spreading. They can also help in wound care, so it does not get worse.
Preventing Future Ingrown Nails
Professional advice on nail care and footwear can prevent the condition from returning.
How Bucks Foot Clinic Can Help
Expertise and High Success Rates
At Bucks Foot Clinic, we specialise in treating ingrown toenails with minimally invasive techniques. One of our most successful treatments is the Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) procedure.
- What is Partial Nail Avulsion?
It’s a procedure where the part of the nail is carefully removed while leaving the rest intact. This stops the nail from growing into the skin again. This is a careful surgery where the team in Bucks Foot Clinic have performed this process on a regular basis where they have skilled the process to make it really easy for the patient. - Why Choose PNA?
It’s highly effective, minimally painful, and offers long-term relief. Patients treated with Nail Removal at Bucks Foot Clinic often report that their nails look almost perfect after recovery, with minimal scarring or discomfort. You still get the look of a perfect nail, so you can still wear your slippers and sandals.
A Personalised Approach
Our experienced podiatrists in Amersham, Chesham, and Little Chalfont are committed to delivering top-quality care, helping you avoid surgery wherever possible.
Temporary DIY Remedies (Proceed with Caution)
While professional care is the best solution, these tips may help manage symptoms in the short term:
- Warm Salt Soaks
Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salts to reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Gently Lift the Nail
Use clean dental floss or a cotton ball to lift the edge of the nail slightly, but avoid digging into the nail bed. If there is any form of infection, please see us before you try this.
- Avoid Tight Shoes
Wear open-toed or roomy footwear to reduce pressure on the toe. - Don’t Dig Deep
Avoid trying to dig out an ingrown nail yourself—it’s easy to cause further damage or infection. This can cause more serious issues and we really would like you to get the right help.
Why Wait? Get Expert Care Today!
At Bucks Foot Clinic, we offer trusted and effective treatments for ingrown toenails and other foot conditions. Our team of skilled podiatrists ensures your nails are healthy, pain-free, and looking their best. We are there to make sure you walk pain free, and happy.
Visit us in Amersham, Chesham, or Little Chalfont and take the first step towards happy, healthy feet.
FAQ
Why does my toenail hurt when I press on it?
It could be due to pressure, injury, fungal infection, or an ingrown nail.
Can an ingrown toenail heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve with proper care, but persistent or severe cases need professional treatment.
How do I safely drain pus from an ingrown toenail?
It’s best to let a podiatrist handle it to avoid further infection.
Is it safe to dig out an ingrown toenail?
No—this can worsen the condition and cause infection.
How can I get rid of an ingrown toenail overnight?
Soaking the toe and gently lifting the nail may provide relief, but professional treatment ensures lasting results.
What is a Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA)?
A PNA removes the ingrown part of the nail while leaving the rest intact, preventing future issues.
Why choose Bucks Foot Clinic?
Our podiatrists deliver expert care with proven success rates and a personalised approach.
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