Ingrown toenails are one of the most common—and painful—foot conditions we see here at Umina Podiatry. Whether it’s a dull ache in your big toe or a sharp sting when you put on shoes, an ingrown toenail can quickly become more than just an inconvenience. The good news? You don’t have to suffer through it. With the right care and treatment, you can get back on your feet comfortably and confidently.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often resulting in pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. It most commonly affects the big toe, but any toenail can become ingrown.
Common causes
There are several reasons why a toenail might become ingrown, including:
- Improper nail trimming: Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
- Tight footwear: Shoes that crowd your toes can put pressure on the nail, pushing it into the skin.
- Injury: Dropping something on your toe or repeated pressure (like kicking a ball) can damage the nail.
- Genetics: Sometimes, it's simply the shape of your nails or how they naturally grow.
Signs you might have an ingrown toenail
- Pain or tenderness along one or both sides of the toenail
- Redness or swelling around the nail
- Pus or drainage if infection is present
- Warmth in the toe
At-home care (when it’s mild)
If the ingrown toenail is in its early stages and not infected, you can try these simple steps:
- Soak your foot in warm water and Epsom salts for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day
- Gently lift the edge of the nail with a clean cotton bud to relieve pressure
- Apply an antiseptic and keep the toe clean and dry
- Wear open-toed shoes or soft footwear to reduce pressure
However, if the pain persists, worsens, or there are signs of infection, it’s time to get professional help.
How Umina Podiatry can help
At Umina Podiatry, we’ve helped countless patients find fast and lasting relief from ingrown toenails. Our podiatrists offer gentle, expert treatment tailored to your needs:
- Nail edge removal: A simple, in-clinic procedure to remove the offending edge and relieve pain immediately
- Nail surgery: In recurring or severe cases, a minor surgical procedure under local anaesthetic can permanently fix the problem by removing part of the nail root
- Preventive advice: We'll show you the best way to trim your nails, choose proper footwear, and avoid future issues
We also use advanced tools and techniques to ensure the experience is as comfortable and effective as possible.
Don’t let foot pain slow you down
An ingrown toenail might seem small, but it can have a big impact on your daily life. Whether you're walking on the beach, chasing after the kids, or standing all day at work, healthy feet are essential.
If you’re dealing with a sore or infected toenail, book an appointment with our friendly team today either online or phone (02) 4342 2878. At Umina Podiatry, we’re here to help you feel like you’re walking on air—pain-free and confident every step of the way.
Where can healthy feet take you...
