Why Does My Ingrown Toenail Keep Coming Back?
If you’ve ever suffered from an ingrown toenail, you’ll understand how painful and frustrating they can be – especially when they keep coming back. Here at Podocare Podiatry, we’ve seen many patients in Sheffield, Batley and Wakefield who have tried everything from home remedies to repeated nail trimming, yet still find themselves battling recurring ingrown toenails. Reasons for this can include improper nail cutting, pressure from tight footwear, genetic nail shape, or past trauma to the toe. Even when the nail is temporarily relieved, these underlying issues can cause the problem to return unless they’re properly addressed. Below, we take a look at what exactly ingrown toenails are, and how you can prevent them from recurring.
So, What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
Commonly located on the big toe, an ingrown toenail forms when the edge or corner of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to swelling, redness, tenderness, and sometimes infection. If left untreated, it can become increasingly painful and can even limit mobility.
Causes of Recurring Ingrown Toenails
Improper Nail Cutting: Trimming your toenails too short or rounding the edges might seem like a neat finish, but it can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Many recurring cases are caused by poor nail cutting technique. It’s best to cut toenails straight across, to avoid digging into the sides.
Tight or Ill-Fitting Footwear: Shoes that put pressure on your toes – especially narrow or pointed styles – can force the nail to press into the skin over time. This is a frequent cause of recurrence, particularly in people who are on their feet a lot.
Inherited Nail Shape: Some people have naturally curved or wide nails that are more likely to become ingrown. If ingrown toenails run in your family, you might be more prone to getting them repeatedly. In this case, it’s important to regularly see a podiatrist for routine checks and preventative care.
Previous Injury or Trauma: Past injuries (like stubbing your toe or repetitive pressure from sports) can alter the nail’s growth pattern, leading to chronic ingrown toenails.
Infections and Nail Conditions: Fungal infections or thickened toenails can change the shape and direction of nail growth, increasing the chances of recurrence. Addressing any underlying nail conditions is key to preventing future ingrown toenails.
Long Term Solutions for Ingrown Toenails
Here at Podocare Podiatry, we don’t just offer short-term relief (like most over-the-counter solutions) as we aim for long-term prevention. If you’re currently dealing with a stubborn, recurring ingrown toenail, our team would be happy to assess the root cause and recommend the right treatment, which could include:
– Professional nail care and advice
– Footwear assessment
– Nail bracing or orthonyxia
– Partial nail avulsion (a minor surgical procedure to remove the offending nail edge)
– Total nail removal in more severe or chronic cases
These treatments are quick, performed under local anaesthetic, and can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
FAQS
Are there different stages of an ingrown toenail?
Yes, there are different stages of an ingrown toenail. Stage 1 involves mild redness and tenderness as the nail begins to press into the skin; Stage 2 brings increased pain, swelling, and possible discharge as the nail pierces the skin; and Stage 3 is marked by severe pain, infection, and overgrowth of tissue around the nail.
Why do I keep getting an ingrown toenail in the same spot?
You may keep getting an ingrown toenail in the same spot due to an underlying issue that hasn’t been fully resolved. Common causes include improper nail trimming, a naturally curved or wide nail shape, tight footwear, or a past injury that altered the nail’s growth pattern.
When should I see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail?
See a doctor if your ingrown toenail is painful, swollen, infected, or keeps coming back. It’s especially important to get it checked if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Will an ingrown toenail eventually grow out?
In some mild cases, an ingrown toenail might grow out on its own – but this is generally not the case. If the nail edge has already broken the skin or caused swelling, pain, or infection, it’s unlikely to resolve without treatment.
Podocare Podiatry - Leading Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Sheffield, Batley and Wakefield
If your ingrown toenails keep coming back, we’d love to help. Our experienced podiatrists at Podocare can identify the root cause of the problem and provide effective, long-term solutions to keep you comfortable and pain-free. Give us a call today on 01924 373189, or complete our online enquiry form and a member of our team will contact you as soon as possible.