Ever had that sharp, throbbing pain on the edge of your toe that just won’t go away? You might think it’s a minor issue, but an ingrown toenail can turn into a real problem if left untreated. Whether you’ve dealt with one before or you’re experiencing the dreaded discomfort for the first time, you’re probably wondering—why does this keep happening?
Let’s dive into why ingrown toenails are so common, what makes them come back, and how to put an end to the cycle for good.
Why Do Ingrown Toenails Happen?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and often, pain. In some cases, it can even lead to infection. But why does this happen in the first place?
Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Improper Nail Trimming – Cutting your nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage them to grow into the skin rather than straight out. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), improper trimming is one of the leading causes of ingrown toenails, particularly when nails are cut too aggressively or curved at the corners instead of straight across.
- Tight Shoes and Socks – Shoes that squeeze your toes together create unnecessary pressure, which can push the nail into the surrounding skin. This is especially common in athletes or individuals who wear narrow or restrictive footwear regularly.
- Injury or Trauma – Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or experiencing repetitive stress (such as from running or certain sports) can alter the way your toenail grows, increasing the likelihood of ingrowth.
- Genetics and Nail Shape – If you have family members who frequently deal with ingrown toenails, you might have inherited the tendency. Some people naturally have nails that are more curved, which makes them more prone to growing into the skin.
- Excessive Sweating and Poor Foot Hygiene – Moist environments can soften the nail and surrounding skin, making it easier for the nail to penetrate. People with excessively sweaty feet or those who don’t practice good foot hygiene may be at higher risk.
- Aging and Health Conditions – As we age, our nails tend to become thicker and more brittle, which makes them harder to trim properly. Additionally, conditions like diabetes and poor circulation can increase the risk of complications from ingrown toenails, making prevention even more critical.
By understanding these causes, you can take steps to reduce your risk and keep your feet healthy. But if ingrown toenails keep coming back despite your best efforts, professional treatment may be necessary.
When an Ingrown Toenail Becomes a Bigger Problem
Most of the time, an ingrown toenail starts as an annoyance. But if it’s left untreated, it can escalate into something more serious. Infection is a big risk—especially if you notice pus, increased redness, or warmth around the toe. For people with diabetes or circulation issues, an ingrown toenail can even lead to serious complications, including slow-healing wounds or ulcers.
If you have an ingrown toenail that’s not improving or keeps coming back, it’s time to get professional care. A podiatrist can provide safe, effective treatment options that go beyond home remedies.
How to Stop Ingrown Toenails from Coming Back
You might have heard about soaking your feet in warm water, applying antibiotic ointments, or using over-the-counter pain relievers. While these can help with mild cases, they don’t always prevent future ingrown toenails. If you’re tired of dealing with the same problem over and over again, here’s what you need to do:
- Trim Your Nails the Right Way
Always cut your toenails straight across—never rounded at the edges. This prevents them from curving into the skin. And don’t cut them too short! Leave a little length so the nail has room to grow properly.
- Choose the Right Footwear
Ditch the shoes that squeeze your toes together. Instead, opt for ones with a roomy toe box that gives your feet some breathing space. If you’re an athlete or on your feet all day, make sure your shoes fit well and provide proper support.
- Treat Your Feet Right
Keep your feet clean and dry, and if you’re prone to ingrown toenails, consider regular visits to a podiatrist for maintenance. For those with diabetes or circulation issues, professional foot care is even more important to prevent complications.
- Consider a Permanent Solution
If ingrown toenails keep coming back, a podiatrist can offer a procedure that removes part of the nail and applies a treatment to prevent regrowth in the affected area. With minimal discomfort and downtime, this approach can provide lasting relief and reduce the chances of future ingrown toenails.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you’ve tried home care and your ingrown toenail isn’t getting better—or if it keeps coming back—it’s time to let a professional take a look. Getting expert treatment can help you avoid pain, infection, and repeat problems down the road.
At Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists, we specialize in effective, long-term solutions for ingrown toenails. Whether you need relief now or want to prevent future issues, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today!
