What it feels like
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail curves down and grows into the skin next to it. It most often affects the big toe.
You may notice:
- Pain along one side of the nail, especially when you press on it or wear shoes.
- Red, swollen, or tender skin at the edge of the nail.
- Signs of infection, like pus, drainage, warmth, or skin that keeps getting redder.
- Extra skin that grows up over the nail edge.
Common causes
Ingrown toenails are common in kids, teens, and adults. Things that can lead to one include:
- Cutting nails too short, or rounding off the corners.
- Shoes or socks that squeeze your toes.
- A stubbed toe, or a toe that gets stepped on or kicked in sports.
- Nails that are curved or thick by nature. This can run in families.
- Picking or tearing at the nail.
Have diabetes or poor circulation? Call us first.
Do not try to treat an ingrown toenail at home. Do not soak it, cut it, or dig at it. A small sore on your foot can turn serious fast. Call us so a doctor can look at it.
Call (541) 385-7129Learn more about diabetic foot care.
What you can try at home
If you do not have diabetes or circulation problems, and the toe is only a little sore, these steps may help:
- Soak. Soak your foot in warm water for a few minutes, then dry it well.
- Keep it clean. Wash the toe each day and keep it covered if the skin is open.
- Give it room. Wear roomy shoes or open-toed sandals until it feels better.
- Leave the nail alone. Do not cut a notch in the nail, dig out the edge, or try "bathroom surgery." This often makes it worse.
To help prevent ingrown nails, cut toenails straight across and not too short.
When to see us
Make an appointment if:
- The toe is not better after a few days of home care.
- You see pus, drainage, spreading redness, or red streaks.
- The pain makes it hard to walk or wear shoes.
- You keep getting ingrown nails on the same toe.
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or numb feet. Call us right away instead of trying home care.
How we treat it
Treatment depends on how bad the nail is and whether it is infected. Your doctor may:
- Gently lift or trim the edge of the nail that is digging in.
- Numb the toe and remove the small strip of nail that is growing into the skin.
- Treat an infection if there is one.
- Show you how to care for the toe while it heals, and how to trim your nails going forward.
If an ingrown nail keeps coming back, ask us about a treatment that keeps that edge of the nail from growing back.
What a visit looks like
- We listen. Your doctor asks how long the toe has hurt and whether this has happened before.
- We look at the toe. We check the nail, the skin around it, and signs of infection.
- We talk through options. Your doctor explains what they suggest and why, before doing anything.
- You leave with care steps. You will know how to keep the toe clean and when to come back.
Most people walk out in their own shoes. Wear a roomy pair or sandals to your visit.
New here? Read what to expect at your first visit and fill out your new patient forms ahead of time.
Questions people ask
Does treatment hurt?
If your doctor needs to remove part of the nail, they numb the toe first. You may feel some soreness after the numbing wears off. Ask your doctor what to expect for your toe.
Will it come back?
Sometimes. Trimming nails straight across and wearing roomy shoes helps. If it keeps coming back, talk with your doctor about longer-lasting options.
Can my child be seen for this?
Yes. Ingrown toenails are common in kids and teens, and we see patients of all ages.
Read about foot care for kids and families.
Should I try to cut it out myself?
No. Cutting or digging at the nail can push it deeper, cause an infection, or make the skin worse. It is safer to let a doctor take care of it.
This page is general information, not medical advice. For advice about your own feet, talk with your doctor.