An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail grows or presses into the skin beside it. It most often affects the big toe. It can be mildly uncomfortable at first, then become sore, red and swollen if the skin is irritated or infected.
What can cause an ingrown toenail?
- Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners
- Tight or narrow shoes that press on the toes
- Pressure from sport, or a knock or stubbed toe
- Nail shape, which can run in families
- Picking or tearing at the nail edges
What can I do at home?
For a mild, early ingrown nail, these steps may help while you arrange advice:
- Wear roomier shoes or open footwear to take pressure off the toe
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Avoid digging at the nail or cutting into the corner yourself
- Trim nails straight across, not too short, once the toe has settled
Home care is not a substitute for an assessment if the toe is getting worse.
When should I see a podiatrist?
It is a good idea to book an appointment if:
- The toe is red, swollen, hot or has discharge
- Pain is stopping you from wearing shoes or walking comfortably
- The ingrown nail keeps coming back
- You have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced feeling in your feet
If you need care sooner than a regular appointment, see our urgent podiatry (after hours and Sundays) page. If you feel very unwell, have a fever or spreading redness, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.
What happens at the appointment?
Your podiatrist looks at the nail and surrounding skin and talks with you about the cause. Mild cases can often be managed by trimming and removing the edge of nail that is pressing into the skin, along with advice on nail care and footwear.
If an ingrown nail keeps coming back, a minor procedure under local anaesthetic may be an option. The affected edge of the nail is removed and the nail root is treated so that edge does not regrow. Your podiatrist explains the procedure, aftercare and a review appointment before you decide. Read more about ingrown toenail treatment and nail surgery.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed for a private appointment. If you have a GP chronic condition management plan, NDIS funding or private health cover, see fees and funding for how claiming works.