Ingrown Toenail – Causes, Treatment, and What Really Helps

An ingrown toenail (medical term: Unguis incarnatus) is painful, bothersome, and can significantly affect daily life. The big toe is most commonly affected. If not treated early, the inflammation can worsen and, in severe cases, medical treatment may become necessary.

How does an ingrown toenail develop?

In most cases, improper nail trimming is the cause. If toenails are cut too short or rounded at the sides, the nail may grow into the surrounding skin as it grows back.

Other risk factors include:

• Shoes that are too tight or put pressure on the toes

• Sports activities involving high pressure on the toes

• Strongly curved or genetically predisposed nail shapes

• Excessive sweating

• Toe misalignment

Typical symptoms

An ingrown toenail usually begins with tenderness or pain when pressure is applied. As the condition progresses, the following symptoms may occur:

• Redness and swelling

• Sharp or throbbing pain

• Inflammation or pus formation

• Development of so-called “proud flesh” (overgrown granulation tissue)

Treatment of Unguis incarnatus using a BS brace

Professional Treatment – Gentle and Effective

In the early stages, professional podiatric treatment can provide rapid relief. The nail is carefully exposed, and pressure on the surrounding tissue is reduced.

Depending on the findings, the following measures may be considered:

• Pressure relief using a special packing (tamponade)

• Gentle nail correction using brace techniques (BS brace, titanium brace)

• Professional advice on proper nail care

• Preventive care to avoid recurrence

  
  

How to Prevent an Ingrown Toenail

• Always cut toenails straight across, not rounded

• Do not trim nails too short

• Wear well-fitting, sufficiently wide shoes

• Keep feet dry

• Schedule regular professional foot care

  
  

Take Action Now – Don’t Wait for the Pain to Worsen

An ingrown toenail rarely heals on its own. The earlier you take action, the simpler the treatment.

Book your appointment now at Podolux GmbH in Rotkreuz.

We provide professional advice and treat ingrown toenails competently, gently, and sustainably.

#IngrownToenail#UnguisIncarnatus#NailCorrection#FootHealth#HealthyFeet#Podiatry#PodiatricTreatment#NailBrace