If you’ve ever experienced an ingrown toenail, you know how painful and frustrating it can be. This common condition occurs when the edge of a toenail—typically on the big toe—grows into the surrounding skin. The result? Redness, swelling, and even infection if left untreated.
At Spotsylvania Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates in Fredericksburg, VA, we help patients find relief from painful ingrown toenails with effective treatments and expert care. In this blog, we’ll discuss the causes, symptoms, and best treatment options for ingrown toenails, along with tips to prevent them from coming back.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons, including:
1. Improper Nail Trimming
Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow into the skin. To avoid this, always trim nails straight across.
2. Tight or Poorly Fitted Shoes
Shoes that are too tight, especially in the toe box, put pressure on the nails, forcing them to grow inward. High heels and narrow shoes are common culprits.
3. Genetics
Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails due to inherited nail shape or foot structure. If a family member frequently deals with ingrown toenails, you may be at higher risk.
4. Injury or Trauma
Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or engaging in repetitive activities (such as running or soccer) can increase the chances of developing an ingrown toenail.
5. Poor Foot Hygiene
Sweaty feet or improper foot hygiene can make the skin around your nails softer and more susceptible to ingrown toenails.
Signs & Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail
An ingrown toenail may start as mild discomfort but can quickly worsen. Common symptoms include:
✔️ Tenderness or pain along one or both sides of the toenail
✔️ Swelling or redness around the nail
✔️ Warmth or pus (indicating an infection)
✔️ Difficulty walking due to pain in the toe
If you notice severe pain, drainage, or signs of infection, it’s time to see a foot specialist in Fredericksburg, VA for professional care.
How to Treat Ingrown Toenails at Home
If your ingrown toenail is mild, you can try these at-home remedies to relieve discomfort:
1. Soak Your Foot in Warm Water
Soaking your foot in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes, three times a day can reduce swelling and soften the nail. Adding Epsom salts may also help with inflammation.
2. Gently Lift the Nail
After soaking, you can try placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the edge of the nail to help it grow away from the skin. Change this daily to prevent bacteria buildup.
3. Apply Antibiotic Ointment
Using an over-the-counter antibiotic cream can prevent infection and promote healing. Keep the area clean and covered with a bandage.
4. Wear Open-Toe or Roomy Shoes
Avoid tight-fitting shoes while your toe heals. Opt for sandals, wide-toe sneakers, or soft slippers to prevent further irritation.
When to See a Podiatrist for an Ingrown Toenail
If the pain worsens or the nail becomes infected, at-home treatments may not be enough. Signs you need to visit a podiatrist include:
❗ Intense pain or difficulty walking
❗ Pus or oozing from the toe
❗ Swelling and redness that spreads
❗ Recurrent ingrown toenails
At Spotsylvania Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates, we offer safe and effective treatments to remove the ingrown portion of the nail and prevent future problems.
Professional Ingrown Toenail Treatments in Fredericksburg, VA
Our podiatrists provide a range of treatment options based on the severity of your condition:
✔️ Nail Lifting Procedure – For mild cases, we carefully lift the nail and place sterile material underneath to guide proper growth.
✔️ Partial Nail Removal (Toenail Avulsion) – If the ingrown nail is severe or infected, we may remove part of the nail under local anesthesia.
✔️ Permanent Nail Removal – For patients with recurring ingrown toenails, we can remove the nail root (matrixectomy) to prevent regrowth.
Our goal is to eliminate pain, prevent infection, and provide long-term relief so you can get back to walking comfortably.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
✅ Trim nails straight across (not rounded)
✅ Wear comfortable, properly fitted shoes
✅ Keep feet clean and dry
✅ Avoid cutting nails too short
✅ Check your feet regularly, especially if you have diabetes or circulation issues
If you have diabetes, proper foot care is especially important, as ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications. Our foot doctors in Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania, VA specialize in diabetic foot care and can help keep your feet healthy.