Do you have pain, redness, or swelling around your toenail? You may have an ingrowing toenail. At The Foot Clinic, our HCPC-registered podiatrists provide expert care to relieve discomfort and prevent complications.

What is an Ingrowing Toenail?

An ingrowing toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause:

• Pain and tenderness

• Redness and swelling

• Infection or discharge in severe cases

  
  

Ingrowing nails most commonly affect the big toe, but any toenail can be involved.

Causes of Ingrowing Toenails

Common factors include:

• Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounding edges)

• Tight or ill-fitting footwear

• Trauma or injury to the toe

• Genetic predisposition to curved nails

Symptoms to Look Out For

• Pain along the nail edge

• Swelling and redness

• Warmth or tenderness around the nail

• Pus or infection in advanced cases

If untreated, the condition can worsen, leading to more severe infection or thickened nail growth.

Chiropody Treatment Options

Our podiatrists offer tailored treatment to relieve pain and prevent recurrence:

• Conservative care: Softening the nail, lifting the nail edge, and padding the affected area.

• Nail surgery: Partial nail removal or matrix ablation in persistent cases (performed under local anaesthetic).

• Advice & prevention: Education on proper nail cutting, footwear, and foot hygiene.

Treatment is safe, effective, and provided in a hygienic, clinical environment by trained professionals.

Self-Care and Prevention Tips

• Trim nails straight across and avoid cutting corners.

• Wear well-fitting shoes with enough room for your toes.

• Keep feet clean and dry to reduce infection risk.

• Avoid attempting to dig out the nail yourself — this can make the problem worse.

  
  

When to See a Podiatrist

Seek professional care if you notice:

• Increasing pain or swelling

• Signs of infection (pus, discharge, redness spreading)

• Recurring ingrowing nails

  
  

Our HCPC-registered podiatrists at The Foot Clinic can assess your toe and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Book Your Appointment

Don’t suffer with an ingrowing toenail — relief is available. Book online or call us today