Ingrown Toenails Are More Than Just a Nuisance — They Hurt!

May 30 2025

An ingrown toenail might seem like a small issue, but anyone who’s had one knows how painful and persistent it can be. That throbbing, red, and tender toe can quickly go from a minor annoyance to a serious disruption in your day-to-day life. So what causes ingrown toenails, how can you prevent them, and when should you seek help from a podiatrist?

Let’s dive in.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge %of your nail grows into the surrounding skin, rather than over it. This leads to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. But why does it happen in the first place?

Here are some of the most common culprits:

Improper nail trimming – Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow inward.
Tight footwear – Shoes that squeeze the toes, especially in the toe box, can push the nail into the skin.
Injury – Stubbing your toe or repetitive trauma (like from running or sports) can change the way a nail grows.
Genetics – Some people naturally have more curved nails or are prone to ingrown toenails.
Poor foot hygiene – Not keeping your feet clean and dry can increase the risk of infection and irritation.

Signs You May Have an Ingrown Toenail

Tenderness or pain along one or both sides of the nail
Redness and swelling
Warmth in the toe
Drainage or signs of infection (such as pus)

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, especially if there’s an infection, it’s time to take it seriously.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

Prevention starts with simple foot care habits:

Trim nails straight across, not curved, and avoid cutting them too short.
Wear properly fitting shoes with enough room for your toes to move comfortably.
Keep feet clean and dry, especially if you’re active or prone to sweating.
Avoid picking or tearing at your toenails or cuticles.

When to See a Podiatrist

Sometimes, home care just isn’t enough. If your toe is infected, the pain is worsening, or the nail keeps growing inward again and again, it’s time to call the experts.

At Family Foot & Leg Center, our podiatrists treat ingrown toenails with precision and care. Whether you need conservative care or a minor in-office procedure, we’ll help relieve your pain and prevent the problem from coming back.

Don’t Let That Toe Throb Another Day
If you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail, help is just a call away. Contact Family Foot & Leg Center in Naples, FL today and let us take care of your feet — so you can get back on yours pain-free.

📞 Call 239-430-3668 (FOOT)
🌐 www.naplespodiatrist.com

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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimally Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling.

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