What is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail (also known as onychocryptosis) occurs when the edge or corner of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it.

This most commonly affects the big toe and can lead to:

  • Pain and tenderness

  • Redness and swelling

  • Bleeding

  • Infection

  • Pus or discharge

  • Difficulty walking or wearing shoes

If left untreated, ingrown toenails can become increasingly painful and infected, and in some cases may develop excessive skin growth (granulation tissue) around the nail.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails can develop due to a number of reasons, including:

  • Cutting nails too short

  • Rounding the corners of the nails

  • Tight footwear or high heels

  • Trauma to the nail

  • Thickened or curved nails

  • Genetic nail shape

  • Poor foot biomechanics

Some people are simply more prone to developing ingrown toenails due to the natural shape or thickness of their toenails.

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

Many people attempt to manage ingrown toenails themselves at home, however, this can often make the condition worse and increase the risk of infection.

At Revival Podiatry, our Podiatrists can:

  • Remove the offending nail edge safely

  • Reduce pain and pressure immediately

  • Treat infection if present

  • Apply antiseptic dressings

  • Provide footwear advice

  • Educate on correct nail cutting techniques

  • Prevent recurrence with ongoing management

Early treatment can often prevent the need for surgery.

Ingrown Toenail Treatment Options

Treatment will depend on the severity of the ingrown toenail.

  1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

Suitable for mild to moderate cases:

  • Removal of the ingrown nail spike

  • Nail edge re-shaping

  • Packing or splinting

  • Nail bracing

  • Infection management

  • Pressure offloading

This provides immediate relief and may be all that is required in early-stage ingrown toenails. However, recurrence is still possible if the nail continues to grow inwards.

2. Ingrown Toenail Surgery (Partial Nail Avulsion)

For recurrent or severely infected ingrown toenails, a minor nail procedure may be recommended.

A Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) is a safe and commonly performed procedure which involves:

  • Numbing the toe with local anaesthetic

  • Removing the ingrown portion of the nail

  • Applying a medical chemical solution (such as Phenol) to prevent that section of nail from regrowing

  • Dressing the toe for protection during healing

This procedure is:

  • Performed in the clinic

  • Takes approximately 60 - 90 mins

  • Has a high success rate

  • Minimally invasive

  • Allows you to walk out afterwards

Only a small portion of the nail is removed - the overall appearance of the nail should remain natural.

After the procedure:

  • Most patients can return to normal daily activities within 24 - 48 hours

  • Some drainage from the toe is expected for 2 - 4 weeks

  • Simple dressing care is required at home

  • Follow-up appointments will be arranged to monitor healing

Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

You should seek professional care if you notice:

  • Ongoing pain

  • Signs of infection

  • Recurrent ingrown toenails

  • Difficulty walking

  • Bleeding or pus

Early intervention can prevent complications and avoid the need for surgery.

ingrown toenail, treatment, podiatrist, painful toe, infected toe

Ingrown Toenail (Onychocryptosis)